VCAT sat in Horsham yesterday after residents opposed a Horsham Rural City Council decision to allow Cec Hopper and Sons to move into the old Powercor site in Anderson Street.

The residents have spoken openly about their disapproval of the decision, claiming it would increase noise, light and traffic in the street.

But Cec Hopper and Sons chief executive Tony Craig told the hearing at Horsham Civic Centre he did not believe the move would adversely affect the lives of nearby residents.

He told the adjudicating tribunal member John Bennett that he believed the Anderson Street site was the best option for the business.

"We are more than happy to be part of the Horsham North community. Anderson Street is clearly zoned appropriately for our use and we believe the location is appropriate," he said.

He explained operating hours would be at reasonable times between 7.30am and 5.30pm with occasional entry from staff out of those hours and said the number of deliveries would not be comparable with the amount that went on when Powercor operated at the site.

"In terms of the site itself we have no plans to add any buildings at this stage," Mr Craig said.

Best option

"From our perspective this site is custom made. I support comments made that we have investigated other sites but this site is the best option. In regard to the issue of objections from Beryl Moloney on behalf of residents, we do not necessarily agree with some of the things they raised.

"For us, the question is should our business be allowed on this site to operate as a business? There is no reason for this not to occur."

Horsham Rural City Council planning and promotion services manager Robin Neilson spoke to the tribunal outlining council's position and why it originally approved the application.