A DECISION is due to be made on a controversial petrol station redevelopment just outside Bridgwater in the coming days.

An application has been submitted to improve the Greenway Garage on Quantock Road by rejuvenating the existing petrol station, and creating a new sales building and car wash on the site.

However, the plans, which will go before Sedgemoor District Council's development committee on Tuesday, October 24, have divided opinion.

Wembdon Parish Council stated that while supportive of something positive being done to 'an ever deteriorating site', it was objecting to development as it has 'strong reservations about the safety of the crossroads next to the proposed development, which is a known accident blackspot'.

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The application details two access points with a one-way system where cars would enter the site from the A39 Quantock Road and exit from Skimmerton Lane.

Highway alterations would include increasing the width of the A39 to allow for filter lanes and to improve visibility.

However Durleigh Parish Council have also objected on highways grounds, stating: "Although in favour of the concept of this application Durleigh Parish Council strongly objects on valid planning grounds relating to site access and traffic health and safety.

"The council feels that the access issue has still not be fully addressed and leaves room for considerable improvement.

"The speed along this road is currently legally 60 mph but generally ignored and the Council feel that there is a need for lower speed restrictions, and the proposed visibility splays are not adequate."

Neighbouring Cannington Parish Council said they would welcome the development including the retail facilities, but suggest the construction of the buildings is not undertaken until the Highways improvements are in place.

Cllr Mike Caswell has lent his support to the scheme, stating: "This application will enhance and make safe a very dangerous junction and must be supported. The improvements are vital."

However, ward Cllr Anne Bown objected to the plans, writing: "I have no objection to the Garage improvements, but not at this very important time, when EDF traffic will be at it busiest, because we must also remember, that some large lorries that have to deliver to Minehead can only use this route because of the bridges on the Taunton to Williton Road. Also you seem to have entertainment all year round for Butlins."

Two third-party consultation exercises were carried out one on behalf of the applicant and one carried out by an objector.

The results saw 250 comments received in support of the application welcoming the road improvements and greater facilities, such as a potential Subway and Costa.

However, 88 comments were received objecting to the application on increased traffic, noise and pollution.

Sedgemoor District Council planning officer Dawn De Vries is recommending the committee turn down the application.

She said: "While the application is acceptable in many respects and will significantly modernize an existing dated facility to the benefit of economic activity, the Local Planning Authority is unable to conclude that the development will not have an adverse impact upon highway safety.

"The application is considered to conflict with policy and is therefore recommended for refusal."