CAMPAIGNERS opposing a controversial scheme for a 24 hour petrol station in the town have been left in limbo after planners failed to reach a decision about it.

But the scheme will be back in front of planners next month with a promise of support by one of the main objectors subject to two issues relating to 24 hour opening and pedestrian safety being resolved.

Now Andy Boddington, who sits on the planning committee and represents Ludlow North on Shropshire Council, says his main concern about potential contamination of an underground aquifer has been addressed.

He says that provided traffic and zebra crossings are included, along with a pedestrian island in Coronation Avenue, he will now support the scheme.

“I believe that the concerns can be resolved and that this will get the go ahead,” said Mr Boddington.

Plans also include a convenience store and a coffee shop.

According to the planning application the scheme would create up to 20 new jobs, 10 of them full of and eight part-time.

The outlet would be built on the site of a former abattoir that is now used as by a brick and paving merchant.

It would sit on a triangle of land between Bromfield Road and Coronation Avenue.

An earlier application on behalf of The Mead House Pension Scheme was withdrawn in October 2013 following objections including concerns from the Environment Agency over contamination of an underground aquifer.

But planners say the scheme has been significantly amended and that the concerns have been addressed.

Tanks, that would be partly submerged, would hold up to 45,000 litres of fuel and these would be set on a concrete slab with a retaining bund in case of any spillage or escape of fuel. The tanks would be one metre above the water table satisfying concerns about the risk of groundwater contamination.

The site will include two spaces for disabled drivers.