PLANS to move a fertilisation operation to a farm at Dauntsey Lock have been met with concern by residents who say storing ammonium sulphate nearby could have a negative effect on their health.

OMEX Agriculture Ltd want to build six tanks and a shed covering 625 square metres in which to store ammonium sulphate crystals, required to make liquid farming fertiliser.

They say the process is not hazardous and needs to move from its current location in Shrivenham as the business grows.

The proposed site, at St John's Farm off the B4069, is located next to a lagoon already being used to store liquid fertiliser.

But Ali Lowe lives at Swallets gate farm, approximately 500m from the proposed site and has concerns.

She said: "I believe the substance is potentially an irritant to lungs if it becomes airborne and as we have a toddler and asthmatic I am worried that I cannot tell from the application if this is a potential issue or not."

Felicity Reynolds of Rose Cottage, Dauntsey Lock added:"We suggest this industrial development should be located on designated industrial land and not in a residential area."

The parish council also want to make sure the commercial business does not dominate the village amid concerns there will be more large vehicles making regular deliveries of ammonium sulphate to St Johns Farm.

However documents submitted by the applicant revealed that lorry trips to the site are expected to decrease once large storage sheds are in place.

The applicant said: "It is important to note that the process is non-hazardous and non-odorous.

"The inclusion of a shed allows substantial quantities of ammonium sulphate crystal to be stored on site, significantly reducing the number of bulk vehicles to the site throughout the year.

"Any surface water run off will be pumped onto the top of the existing lagoon. Any run off from the shed roof will also be piped directly towards the lagoon."

Vivian Vines, of Dauntsey parish council said:"Council have always considered this large scale commercial operation, now wishing to further expand, should have been sited on an approved employment site rather than in the rural countryside in a non sustainable location where it is obtrusive." A planning decision is dueby November 4.