Controversial plans for a concrete crushing facility in Thame have been withdrawn following a 130-strong demonstration over the weekend. 

The scheme was for a concrete crushing facility at the top of Moorend Lane, off Tythrop Way.

Protesters said the development would pose threats to the community's well-being and environment.

It had been due for a decision by Oxfordshire County Council's planning committee on October 14, but the calendar of meetings shows it to be cancelled. 

The application itself is now listed as being withdrawn on the county council's online planning portal. 

The weekend's protest was joined by Freddie Van Mierlo, the recently elected MP for Henley and Thame, who came to show his support. 

READ MORE: Protesters out in force over concrete crushing plans for Oxfordshire town

Reacting to the news, Mr Van Mierlo said: "It is great to hear the news that the application for a concrete crushing facility at the top of Moorend Lane in Thame has been withdrawn. It is a testament to the hard work and tenacious spirit of the local community who were totally opposed to the application.

"I note with some caution that no reason has yet been given for the withdrawal and I sincerely hope this is a permanent move and the applicant has recognised that this is a totally inappropriate site for this kind of activity."

Mark Goodall, chairman of Lea Park Residents Association, said: “I am thrilled that our campaign to stop this proposal has been successful. It just shows that it is possible for a community to come together and make its feelings known successfully.

“We hope that the applicant will realise that this site simply isn’t suitable for this kind of facility as it’s so close to homes and the places where children play. A far better use of the land would be an improvement to the existing sewage treatment plant, which desperately needs an upgrade.

“We urge the county council to look closely at the land usage of this part of Thame and ensure that it is properly protected for the future.”

A local petition against the proposal had more than 1,200 signatures by the time it was withdrawn. 

The Lea Park Residents Association, in partnership with the Thame Town Council, ran a very successful campaign against the scheme. 

The association objected to the original proposal and an amended proposal submitted some months later. 

Awareness had been raised via the delivery of leaflets, collection of petitions and the use of local social media. This culminated in an estimated 130 people joining a demonstration at the Skate Park (adjacent to the site) on Sunday, September 29, which brought people from across Thame as well as the Lea Park estate. There were families, dog walkers, local residents, district and county councillors as well as representatives from Thame Town Council. 

The applicant Clark Contracting Ltd has been approached for a comment.