A CAMPAIGN group is calling for public support to help prepare to fight the fresh application to build a giant rail freight terminal on Green Belt land in Park Street. STRiFE (Stop the Rail Freight Interchange) has already started developing a strategy to

A CAMPAIGN group is calling for public support to help prepare to fight the fresh application to build a giant rail freight terminal on Green Belt land in Park Street.

STRiFE (Stop the Rail Freight Interchange) has already started developing a strategy to fight Helioslough's proposal for the site, which was the subject of a lengthily planning inquiry last year.

Although the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Hazel Blears, refused the developer's appeal against the district council's refusal to grant planning permission, her major reason for doing so was that insufficient work had been done to prove there were no other sites suitable to serve London and the South East.

Because of this, Helioslough believe they will get permission for the 3.5 million-square-foot depot if they carry out more work on the alternative sites assessments.

But STRiFE is working on its case to prove that there are other much more suitable sites for such a proposal.

STRiFE founder Cathy Bolshaw urged the public to help once again whether it be through delivering leaflets, conducting research or making financial contributions.

She said: "We fought this off once and we will not be bullied by big developers trying to wear us down yet again. The fact remains that this is the wrong place to site a Strategic Rail Freight Interchange, the traffic problems would only get worse and likewise pollution. This proposal can be fought off and this time it will be - once and for all."

A public meeting is currently being scheduled for January.

Those who can help should contact info@strife.biz or call Cathy on 07710 327969.