Save Ulverscroft & Markfield’s Countryside from Industrial Development

A growing number of residents are speaking out against a proposed industrial and logistics development near Junction 22 of the M1, close to Ulverscroft and Markfield.

The site sits within a sensitive part of Leicestershire’s countryside, connected to the Charnwood Forest landscape and within reach of the National Forest. It includes areas of woodland, hedgerows and open land that form part of a wider green corridor supporting local wildlife and well-used walking routes.

A petition opposing the development has already gathered over 2,400 signatures, reflecting strong concern from the local community.

What is being proposed

The application (Ref: 25/00931/FUL) outlines plans for a large-scale logistics and industrial park, including storage and distribution units, general industry space and associated infrastructure.

Residents and campaigners have raised concerns about the scale and location of the proposal, particularly given its proximity to rural landscapes and relatively small surrounding settlements.

Why local people are concerned

The area around Ulverscroft is valued not just for its landscape, but for how it connects people to the countryside.

Campaigners point to several key concerns:

• The loss of a connected green corridor, supporting species such as bats, owls, red kites and pollinators
• The impact on a tranquil rural landscape, recognised as part of the Charnwood Forest character area
• Increased HGV traffic and pressure on local roads, particularly around Junction 22
• The introduction of 24-hour industrial activity, including lighting and noise in a currently quiet area
• Conflict with local planning policy, including commitments within the Markfield Neighbourhood Plan

There are also wider concerns about the scale of employment land being proposed across the area, and whether this site is appropriate compared to alternatives.

A wider issue

This proposal reflects a broader challenge facing many parts of Leicestershire, how to balance the need for development with the protection of landscapes that support biodiversity, local identity and community wellbeing.

Once land of this kind is developed at scale, it is very difficult to restore.