FEARS of water contamination have been sparked by a bus depot's request not to install a drainage device as required by the council.

Tyrers Coaches in Farnworth wants to dispense with its obligations to install an oil interceptor because it places a "disproportionate" burden on the business, citing costs of £50,000.

An application to remove this condition, which was set when permission was granted to use the site as a bus depot in May, will be discussed at a meeting on Thursday.

Officers have recommended that councillors approve the company's request because the requirement is covered by legislation beyond the realms of the planning authority.

READ MORE: Fury after bus firm given go ahead to continue using depot backing on to residents' homes

READ MORE: Neighbours rail against Tyrers Coaches for noise and dust

Neighbouring residents, many of whom objected to the initial application, have written to the council to raise their concerns.

John Anderton, of Conway Street ,said: “The most important part that residents are fearful of is that it contaminates the water supply. As far as the residents are concerned, this is about saving our planet for future generations and not destroying it.”

As part of the application, the company provided information about other measures that are undertaken to prevent spillages and public sewer contamination.

Despite this, the government's Environmental Agency said it would "highly recommend" using a containment method like an oil interceptor.