A new Shrewsbury bus depot could be built on the outskirts of the town under plans unveiled today. It would be built next to the Harlescott park and ride.

It would be sited near the Tesco superstore and would replace the Arriva depot in front of the Flax Mill in Ditherington.

Plans for a depot with car parking, bus wash, steam clean and fuel and oil tanks in Harlescott have been earmarked for approval by Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough planners.

But concerns have been raised over congestion and pollution.

Councillor Eileen Sandford opposes the move due to congestion following developments in the area in the last two years.

She said: “No-one has taken notice of residents’ previous concerns and this proposal will only add to the existing congestion and pollution.

“Regular buses from all directions coming in and out onto Harlescott Lane are not appropriate.”

A report will be discussed by the development control committee next Tuesday.

It says: “The proposal will have no detrimental impact on neighbouring land users, will not be detrimental to the character and appearance of the locality and will have no harmful highway implications.”

It recommends approval subject to a satisfactory Air Quality Assessment Report. The environmental health manager has requested a report to determine the impact of the additional traffic at Heathgates Island.

The proposals have been put forward despite Arriva wanting to hold on to the depot in Spring Gardens. The authority is working with Arriva to resolve the problems but a public inquiry could take place if no agreement is reached.