Shropshire abattoir plans to be decided next week

Controversial plans to double the size of an abattoir near homes in rural north Shropshire could be decided next week - a year after the proposals were first unveiled.

Anglo Beef Processors, based at Hordley, near Ellesmere, has applied to Shropshire Council for permission to bulldoze its abattoir and replace it with a more modern complex.

The application will be discussed by the North Planning Committee in the Council Chamber, Castle View, Oswestry, on Tuesday at 2pm.

Campaigners from nearby villages look set to attend the meeting to voice their concerns.

Despite sparking more than 100 letters of objections, the application has been recommended for approval subject to the applicants entering into a legal agreement.

Campaigners claim that they are already blighted by traffic problems caused by the existing plant and are also worried about an increase in noise and air pollution.

But ABP bosses insist the plans were submitted to benefit the firm's staff and animals and would not affect traffic and pollution.

Derek Jones, chairman of Hordley Parish Council, who objected to the scheme, said he was delighted that the application was finally going to committee after it was submitted last year.

He said: "It has been very long-winded. It is nice to see we are making some progress.

"We will have a good representation at the meeting next week.

"It would be nice if the village backed us."

A planning report by Shropshire Council planning officers said: "The principle of an expansion of an existing business is supported and encouraged."