A PROPOSED truck stop has divided opinions in the area.

The application is for a roadside truck stop facility on the land at the corner of the A46 Evesham by pass and Broadway Road, Evesham.

The proposed facility will have associated HGV and car parking, a drivers facilities building, a security hut, and service yard.

Many local residents have posted objections on the planning form on the Wychavon website. One read: "I object to this application for the following reasons: 1. Access to A44 from the site for trucks turning right (i.e. towards Evesham) - the is significant traffic coming from Wickhamford direction to either enter Evesham or access the by-pass.

Truck drivers are working to a tight time schedule and any time saved helps them. This is likely to result in trucks crossing the carriageway, blocking traffic heading towards Wickhamford. Sightlines are likely to be insufficient for this to be safe. 2. Trucks will be more likely to cross through Evesham itself rather than go round the by pass, resulting in increased traffic volume and exacerbating an already congested town centre. In particular, Port Street, Evesham is not suitable for heavy traffic (both size and volume) due to the narrowness of the roadway."

However not everyone is against the truck stop. One local left this comment on the application: "I'm a HGV driver who regularly spends time travelling up and down the country. Because of a shortage of secure parking for HGVs, more frequently than ever, there are reports of drivers being attacked in their vehicles with criminals intent on stealing not only the loads that we carry but also personal property, resulting in losses for the companies involved but also a very real risk to the lives of drivers.

On nights where secure parking can't be found, I have stayed on the side of the road in laybys, where every murmur or rattle around you could be potential danger. It is not a pleasant way to spend a night whilst doing an important job to keep logistics in running smoothly so shops are stocked and items arrive where they need to be. For this reason I believe the council should approve planning to help make more facilities available to park safely and securely. If I can help advise in any way, or anyone needs more information don't hesitate to contact me on the details provided."

A spokesperson for Wychavon District Council, said: “The application is currently under consideration. We have consulted Worcestershire County Council in their role as highway authority and are awaiting their views on the application.”