Concerns over plans for 10,000 litre fuel tank at petrol station

Plans for a 10,000 litre free-standing fuel tank at Barnard Castle’s petrol station have upset residents on nearby Prospect Place.

But Penny Petroleum, the operator of the BP garage, has attempted to ease concerns over what it describes as “a sensible investment in the site”.

In a letter to this week’s Mercury, Dean Bradley highlighted that the proposed tank, which is set to occupy one of the parking spaces next to the petrol station kiosk, would be about 3.5m from the gable end of the nearest house.

“I believe the installation of this tank poses a significant safety and environmental risk, particularly in relation fire or explosion… in the event of a leak or accident.”

He added that he had spoken with neighbours in Prospect Place.

“A 2.4m high LPG tank towering above their boundary wall, centimetres away from their patio seating area where children play, will pose a significant risk and be a significant visual intrusion, adversely affecting the enjoyment and peaceful use of their home and garden.”

Barnard Castle’s county councillor Chris Foote-Wood has called for an urgent site meeting with the planning department.

He is concerned that the tank would be “open to criminality and vandalism”.

He added: “My understanding of the regulations… is that a surrounding wall must be built large enough to accommodate the full capacity of the tank in case it is ruptured.”

In response, Emma Shell, Head of Compliance and Business Development for Penny Petroleum, explained that the proposed tank would allow the introduction of premium fuels, including super diesel, which are not currently available in town.

This would offer more choice to motorists in Barney and the surrounding villages.

She added that safety was the primary consideration throughout the design stage.

“Above-ground fuel tanks are widely used across the industry and we currently operate similar installations at a number of our service stations without issue,” she said.

“Modern above-ground tanks are designed and manufactured to rigorous industry standards and are subject to comprehensive monitoring, inspection and maintenance regimes.”

A statement from the operator also highlighted the environmental advantages of above-ground fuel storage.

It stated that the installation would be designed and operated in line with relevant safety standards and industry best practice to minimise any risk of vandalism.

In response to neighbours’ concerns about the appearance of the tank, Ms Shell said: “Our intention is to enclose and screen the tank as far as reasonably practicable, creating an installation that is both functional and sympathetic to its surroundings.”

Ms Shell also pledged to work constructively with county planning officials during the planning application process.

She added: “We believe this proposal represents a sensible investment in the site.

“It provides an enhanced service for customers while meeting all required safety, environmental and planning standards.”