Tesco air pollution evidence rejected

2:32pm Friday 16th May 2008

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PLANNING chiefs have re-approved a controversial application to build a new Tesco store in Stourport and rejected an expert's claim the development would lead to air pollution.

Roy Harrison, professor of environmental health at Birmingham University, said a new store on the former Carpets of Worth factory site in Severn Road would increase congestion causing a build up of harmful gases.

He submitted a report which was considered by members of Wyre Forest District Council's planning development control committee last night.

He explained the impact of increased congestion on air quality had not been properly explained to members and said the district council's air quality data was "unreliable".

Mike Parker, the council's head of planning, health and the environment, rejected these findings and said the council was "satisfied" by its air quality monitoring data.

He added that a package of highway improvements included as part of the application would reduce any chance of congestion and improve the free flow of traffic around the town.

Councillor Howard Martin, leader of Independent Health Concern, opposed the bid but had to leave the chamber due to a conflict of interest.

He said: "My position was just enhanced and strengthened by the report of the environmental specialist."

The application was endorsed by all the members present with the exception of Independent Health Concern councillor, Jill Fairbrother-Millis.

Nina Das Gupta, spokeswoman for Wyre Forest District Council, said: "Members gave full consideration to Professor Harrison's comments and formed their view based on what he said, the report and their own local knowledge of the area."

The application was approved under delegated authority subject to a number of conditions including contributions towards the town's bus service and the construction of a link bridge.