SOUTH Ribble Borough Council planners have backed protests from residents in the Longton area of the borough over a Leyland company's plan to build an industrial composting plant nearby.

It comes after a planning application by TEG Environmental, of Sandy Lane, to build a compost waste plant at Springbrook Farm, Thropps Lane, Longton, near Preston.

But in a report to the Western Parishes Area Committee, which meets tonight (Thursday) at Little Hoole CP School, Walmer Bridge, council planners have raised "strong objections" to the development.

The report states: "This industrial development constitutes inappropriate development in green belt contrary to the South Ribble Local Plan. Insufficient evidence has been submitted with the proposal to demonstrate that it could be carried out without adverse environmental impacts." Their recommendation has been welcomed by newly formed residents' action group Villagers Against Pollution who fear the site would cause adverse pollution.

But TEG Environmental financial director Mike Cox believes the firm's application is perfect. "When we apply for a waste management license the Environment Agency will assess risks," he said."

Longton councillor Peter Stettner agrees with the council's planners. He said: "It is a highly populated area and to stick a composting plant there is just no good."

Ultimately Lancashire County Council will be the determining authority for the plan. A county council spokesman said: "It is our intention to put these applications on our agenda for consideration on September 5. Beyond this, it is up to the councillors present at that meeting to consider any information passed."