Tesco plan on hold in quiz over pollution

Controversial plans for a new Tesco will go back before planners after new evidence has found that the extra traffic could lead to air pollution.Plans for the new supermarket which will include a petrol station, new road and bridge and footbridge, were first approved by Wyre Forest planners in March this year.

But the scheme will now come back to the planning committee next Tuesday in the light of new information which states that the extra traffic could cause unacceptable levels of air pollution in Stourport town centre.

A campaigner, who has not been named, has submitted the information, which has prompted planners to bring back the plans to see whether they should be rejected because of the possible impact in Mitton Street, High Street and Gilgal.

Mike Parker, head of planning at Wyre Forest District Council said: "The council has received additional information on air quality matters from a third party objector which are significant enough for us to have to report to members of the committee so that they can decide what weight to attach to them in the decision making process."

Traders fear as many as 35 small businesses could close in Stourport if the supermarket opens.