A CARE home operator has been told it cannot expand its Lostock Gralam site as it would be too close to three explosive gas pipes.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) stepped in to block plans from Country Court Care to expand Lostock Lodge over concerns a ‘massive fire ball’ would break out if any gas leaked out from the high-pressure gas pipes and was ignited.

Country Court Care wanted to use the extra space for 22 additional care home beds on the first floor of the Cheshire Business Park site, while using the downstairs as a children’s nursery to support parents working nearby.

But following the HSE’s intervention, Cheshire West and Chester Council has rejected the plans.

A report published by CWAC’s planning officers said: “The nature of the gas, its pressure and the design of the pipelines, if subject to a failure could lead to a catastrophic release of gas which if ignited would burn as a massive fire ball and subsequent jet fire.

“The risks to people are low but are considered by HSE sufficient not to allow a substantial increase in the number of persons living close to the pipelines and subject to the residual risks.

“It is considered that there are no material considerations that exist to outweigh the harm caused by the proposed development.

“To grant planning permission for the proposed development would result in an unacceptable increase in the number of people exposed to that risk.”

No objections against the plans were sent to CWAC from Lostock Gralam Parish Council, neighbouring businesses or residents.

The scheme’s design was also considered appropriate by the council’s planning officers.

In its planning application, The Planning Hub, representing Country Court Care, said: “The development would involve the use of the redundant land to the north of the care home in order to provide sufficient space for the extension itself and the associated car parking and garden that will serve it.

“The proposed extension will serve to complement the existing development in a manner which will not result in any harmful impact on the wider area.”

The Guardian has approached Country Court Care for comment.