PLANS submitted by Tesco for a 24-hour petrol station at its Heswall store have sparked an outcry from householders and councillors.

The retailer has lodged an application with the council that would see part of the Telegraph Road store’s car park make way for four self-service fuel pumps.

The pay-at-pump service means there would be no need for a cash kiosk.

Heswall conservative councillor Andrew Hodson said: "This not the first time Tesco has tried to build a petrol station in their car park but we have been successful in having it refused each time.

“If allowed the plans for a 24-hour station would have a negative effect on the elderly residents who live in close proximity in Dale Court.

“It would also have an adverse effect on an already busy main road and traffic junction.

“When it was first built Tesco, under their planning conditions, had to provide an agreed number of car parking spaces, these would be eroded.

“Also at present the store is not allowed 24-hour deliveries so this would also break their terms of the agreement.

“While we want the store to prosper - but we do not want this at the detriment of local residents.”

Wirral Globe:

The petrol station is planned for the area highlighted in red

Tesco says there is a high demand and would welcome discussion with local councillors about the petrol station’s opening hours.

Tesco spokesman Mark Thomas said: “We’re always looking to improve our customers’ experience and at our Heswall store we have had many requests to provide a competitively-priced petrol station for Heswall residents.

“We’re acting on those requests and have applied to open a small petrol station with four pumps and no kiosk.

“We’d be happy to talk to Councillors and residents about their concerns and to understand how we can help.

“We’re always conscious of our responsibility to be a good neighbour in Heswall.”