A SET of underground gas tanks could be installed close to the A12.

Braintree Council’s planning committee is set to rule on Countryside Properties’ plans to place five gas containers below the ground along Bury Lane, Hatfield Peverel.

The tanks will serve 50 new homes which will be built nearby by the developer.

The proposals have been recommended for approval by planning officers, despite Hatfield Peverel Parish Council objecting to the scheme.

Councillors have raised doubts about the safety of the tanks, which they fear could be compromised if a crash occurs on the nearby A12.

Residents living in at 1 and 2 Nottage Crescent have also objected to the application on similar grounds over safety. They also fear there will be increased HGV traffic going past their homes.

Countryside insists there is no risk to the public as the tanks will be placed underground and a number of expert consultees such as Highways England and Environmental Health have raised no objections.

The application will be decided during a meeting at Causeway House on Tuesday, starting at 7.15pm.