Traders staged a demonstration yesterday to protest against plans to store hazardous waste near Cheltenham.

More than 30 people stood outside the K2 unit on Andoversford Industrial Estate to oppose plans to use it as a waste transfer site.

Maylarch Recycling Ltd, an asbestos removal firm, has applied to Gloucestershire County Council to use the unit to store hazardous waste before transport to Wingmoor Farm, near Bishop's Cleeve.

The plan has sparked concern in Andoversford, with villagers worried about the danger of contamination in the event of an accident and traders on the estate, scene of a major chemical fire in 2006, say the plans would be "a disaster".

Sue Clemmitt, of Astor Bannerman, who helped to organise the protest, said: "We are totally against having a waste storage unit here. We have already seen what can happen when there is an accident on site.

"That aside, there is not enough room to have a procession of large vehicles coming in and out all day. There is barely enough room for vehicles to park as it is."

Residents of Andoversford, who were at a public meeting with Maylarch last week, are understood to be very concerned about the plans.

Roger Swadling, managing director of Positek, which makes electronic equipment and borders on to the K2 unit, said waste transfer was not compatible with other businesses on the site.

"This kind of thing would definitely lower the tone," he said. "We want a clean atmosphere, where we can work in peace and quiet."

Protesters, armed with placards, said the potential for contamination was foremost among concerns.

Jim Beaman, a partner at Wiltshire Farm Foods, said: "Waste disposal needs to be done, but this site is just not appropriate for it. They should be using a compound and an enclosed unit where they could contain the contamination if there was an accident.

"It's not the kind of business we want on our doorstep. When clients come to visit us having a hazardous waste disposal unit next door doesn't exactly inspire confidence."

Nick Williamson, managing director of Maylarch, said the 378sq metre site would be used to transfer 60 tonnes of asbestos each year.

"We're more than happy to talk about our plans with traders," he said. "Our industry is strictly regulated and if we get planning permission we'd adhere to rigorous safety guidelines."

A consultation period on the application runs until October 16. Plans can be viewed at www.gloucestershire.gov.uk

Opinion, p8