Wem recycling plant expansion plan is opposed

The plans by PG Skips to expand its premises at Lowe Cottage Farm have also faced strong opposition from residents due to worries about an increase in traffic.

The firm has submitted the proposal to expand to Shropshire Council to meet demand and make it more efficient. But on the council's website, a highway advice note recommends the plans are not approved.

It says: "The plans should not be approved on the grounds that the submitted information fails to identify the vehicle movements likely to be generated by the development to enable consideration of any implications for the local highway network.

"The submitted information also contains directions for vehicles leaving the site to avoid Wem town centre. It is considered that the route description provided is vague and requires improvement to ensure that the route is clear to drivers."

The scheme, which will involve extending the facility to accommodate segregated waste storage and a light waste reception area for vehicle tipping, will create at least 10 jobs.

Bosses say the extension will help it to achieve its goal of 100 per cent recycling with zero waste to landfill.

Documents submitted in support of the application said the company is still experiencing a natural increase in business and a constant rise an ever increase in legislation to divert materials from landfill."In addition, the company needs to cope with a greater diversity of materials which require recycling," the documents state.

"The company also recycles farm waste from across Shropshire and has seen an increase in volumes and varieties that need to be recycled rather than land filled."

The firm said the extension will result in the vast majority of its operations being carried out under cover.

Planners at Shropshire Council hope to make a final decision on the scheme by Monday. People can comment online.

People can comment on the proposal as part of consultation into the development by visiting the council's website.