PLANS to build an Eddie Stobart warehouse on green belt land have been recommended for approval – despite fears the site would cause ‘traffic chaos’.

The logistics firm’s proposals to construct a £75 million national distribution centre were turned down by the authority in November but it lodged an appeal against the decision, as well as submitting a fresh planning application.

The revised application is due to come before the development management committee at the Town Hall at 6.30pm next Wednesday.

If built, it would be built on land north of Barleycastle Lane, opposite the firm’s existing headquarters at Stretton Green Distribution Park.

Eddie Stobart has welcomed the recommendation from council officers to approve the application, subject to a section 106 agreement.

If passed, construction of the 624,910 sq ft site would begin in October this year, with it planned to open by the end of 2020.

The company says it would create 480 jobs.

Alex Laffey, CEO of Eddie Stobart, added: “Since the council’s decision in November 2018 to turn down our previous application we have worked hard overcome the concerns of councillors and we are delighted that our plans have once again been supported by Warrington Borough Council.

“The national distribution centre will deliver real investment and create real jobs and training opportunities for Warrington.

“Our vision will also see over £6 million invested into the road network for the benefit of all road users.

“Over the next 18 months we will work closely with Warrington & Co to make sure that Warrington residents and businesses are at the front of the queue for the opportunities provided at the national distribution centre.

“We are proud to have our national headquarters in Warrington and stand ready to deliver on the ambitions that Warrington Borough Council has for the town by this strategic investment in the economy.”

Around 1,100 objections and 32 letters/e-mails of support have been submitted to the council.

But it has been 'noted' that some people have written more than once and not all the people who have made representations live in the immediate locality.

Residents have highlighted objections on a range of issues including the application ‘completely going against’ the council’s local transport plan, as well as because of fears that it would result in ‘traffic chaos’ due to up to 2,000 HGV trips per day and the additional commuter traffic.

READ > Heartbreaking bravery of incredible pupil left not a dry eye in the house

The section 106 agreement includes £600,000 for a staff shuttle service, £20,000 towards public footpath/cycle way improvements, £1,460,984 towards A50 roundabout/Cliff Lane improvements and £100,000 towards ‘upskilling and training’ of the wider Warrington community by supporting the work of the council’s social and regeneration team, who would ensure that residents are in a ‘better position’ to gain employment.

If approved, it would also need to get the nod from the secretary of state.