Villagers' composter unit protest

Villagers have lodged a "serious objection" against a developer's plans for a hi-tech composting unit close to their north Shropshire homes.

Childs Ercall Parish Council claims plans to install a demonstration "in-vessel" composting unit at a hangar in Eaton Road, Childs Ercall, are "far too risky to approve".

Parish clerk Audrey Wellings has written to Shropshire Council urging members of its north planning committee to refuse the proposed development amid fears of health, traffic, vermin, noise and smell problems.

Last month more than 100 people attended a public meeting in the village to hear about Wrexham-based In-Vessel Composting's plans for a demonstration unit where bosses could show prospective clients how the equipment works.

In her letter, which follows a period of consultation with villagers and parish councillors, Mrs Wellings said: "The over-riding impression and fear is that the approach roads to Childs Ercall are unsuitable for the number and size of vehicles, which if the application is approved, will be using the site on a daily basis."

She also invites councillors to visit the site. If the plans are approved, the site would operate up to six days a week and could handle up to 25,000 tonnes of waste a year. A Shropshire Council spokesman said no firm date had been set as yet to consider the plans.