A COUNCILLOR has urged Bolton Council officials to listen to residents' concerns about a controversial coalyard plan.

Bristol-based haulage firm E H Bennett is applying for a licence to operate a depot at the former Co-op yard at Manchester Road, Chequerbent.

It has already been given a certificate saying the depot can open, but it now needs authorisation under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Campaigners fear the yard could cause massive traffic and pollution problems and more than 650 residents have signed a petition against it.

Hulton Park Councillor Andrew Morgan said: "All of these people have genuine concerns about the authorisation and the use of this site as a coalyard.

"As elected members and officers of the council we need to start listening to the public and at least have the courtesy to respond with detailed answers to their concerns."

E H Bennett had applied to open a similar yard in Blackrod, but was turned down following a campaign by residents living nearby.

The firm applied for authorisation to open the yard at Chequerbent in January, but the application was sent back because it did not contain enough information.

It has now submitted another application and the council has given residents 28 days to send in their objections.

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "Once the 28-day deadline has passed, the council must consider people's representations, information provided by the firm and guidance notes from the Government.

"It must then determine whether or not an authorisation should be issued."

The decision will be made by council officers under delegated powers.