AN unmade road serving part of the multi-million-pound railway distribution depot at Whitemoor could remain a dust hazard for at least another two years, if Network Rail is granted permission to change one of the conditions attached to its planning permis

AN unmade road serving part of the multi-million-pound railway distribution depot at Whitemoor could remain a dust hazard for at least another two years, if Network Rail is granted permission to change one of the conditions attached to its planning permission.

Network Rail was ordered, as part of the planning permission to bring the old marshalling yards at March back to life as a strategic supply depot, to seal the road between the site access and the spent ballast/recycling area.

Planners insisted this should be done within three years but Network Rail is seeking permission for this to be extended to five years.

Jane Gleeson, director of Firstplan, the company handling arrangements for Network Rail, said the delay was needed because the road may have to be moved.

"Plans are being considered by Network Rail for development within the phase two area of the site, which would necessitate moving the road," she said.

"These plans are not yet finalised and will be discussed further with the county council in due course.

"We are, therefore, seeking a variation of the timescale for sealing the road from three to five years from the date of consent.

"This should allow adequate time to review future development options and avoid unnecessary works to the road if it is no longer retained."

She promised that "in the meantime, Network Rail will ensure that adequate dust suppression measures are in place to ensure there is no nuisance from vehicles using the haul road".

Her company's request has been lodged with Cambridgeshire County Council, which has contacted March Town Council and Fenland District Council for their comments prior to making a decision.