Approval is urged for fuel depot

Plans for a big fuel storage and distribution depot close to people's homes in Market Drayton have been recommended for approval, despite a string of objections.

Developers want to build three 100,000 litre fuel storage tanks in Llewellyn Roberts Way, .

Applicants J R Rix And Sons Ltd insist the scheme is safe and would create 20 jobs on the site once occupied by Longslow Dairies and Butter Coaches at Maer Lane Industrial Estate.

But the town council disagrees and has lodged an objection to the plan together with concerned residents who have written to Shropshire Council voicing their fears over increased traffic and safety.

The town Council cites health and safety reasons including the site's proximity to housing estates and the Palethorpes factory.

But Ruairidh Beath, of Rix, said: "This site will only store a relatively low volume of low risk fuels."

Three letters of objection have been sent in raising concerns about more large vehicles using Maer Lane, noise pollution, damage to the road surface and its proximity to homes.

Shropshire Council planning officers say the scheme should be approved subject to conditions.

A decision is due when the north planning committee meets on Tuesday at 2pm at Edinburgh House, Wem.