Shop and fuel station to open for 24 hours?

A Co-op store and petrol station could be open around the clock.

Councillors on Wakefield Council’s planning committee are expected to approve its opening hours to be extended at a meeting next week.

Applicant Rupert Ainsworth of Rontec Watford has submitted an application to the council requesting the shop and fuel pumps at Ackworth Road in Pontefract are operated on a 24 hour basis every day. The current operating hours are between 7am and 11pm.

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A report to the planning committee said: “The applicant has stated that the change in hours is needed to enable the facility to meet the expectations of customers, and retain a broadly competitive trading position. The change will enhance the viability and functionality of the site, to the benefit of motorists and local residents.”

Night-time customers would be served through a window to the shop.

And the car wash and vacuum would only be able to be used between 7am and 11pm on Monday to Saturday and 9am until 4pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

Thirteen letters of objection have been lodged against the proposals. And Pontefract South Councillor David Jones also raised concerns about additional noise and light pollution and the business being close to residential properties.

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Fears were also raised that the changes could lead to an increase in anti-social behaviour. But a report by planning officers concluded the plans would not have “an adverse impact” on neighbouring residents and levels of crime. The plan is expected be approved.