A motorcycle shop which is already trading at the site of a former car showroom has been refused permission for the change of use - with the council citing "noise" and "disturbance" to neighbours.

Bestway Motorcycles in Hornchurch had a retrospective planning application to convert the former car showroom at 159-161 Billet Lane refused on March 15.

The workshop sells, rents and repairs motorcycles. When asked if the council would be taking further action against the shop, the local authority declined to comment.

"The usage of the premises as a motorbike sales and hire use business [...] results in an unsatisfactory relationship by way of noise and disturbance caused by the repairing of motorcycles within the premises," the council outlined in its reasons for refusal.

"[It] therefore is unacceptably detrimental to the amenities of occupiers of nearby residential properties."

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In a design and access statement from applicant and agent J&K Architectural Services, the firm argued that the continued use of the premises brought business to the area with minimal disruption to residents.

"The proposal would provide a specialist service to the local centre," J&K Architectural Services added.

It was further argued, before the refusal, that the motorcycle business aligns with the council's Local Plan objectives, specifically policy 13.

This is to support Havering's economic growth and the supply of high quality, modern and flexible business premises within the borough's town centre, as indicated in the design and access statement.

"The local community have been very supportive and welcoming to the shop in the last six months of trading," it continued.

But the council ruled there was an "inadequate" delivery and servicing provision that resulted in an overspill of bikes parking on the public highway or blocking the footway and traffic.

"All of which are harmful to highway and pedestrian safety", the council ruling added.

Bestway Motorcycles declined a request to comment.

Havering Council said it was unable to comment further to what has been published on its website.