BUSINESSES near the site of a planned waste disposal and recycling plant have criticised the scheme.

Companies on the Stainton Grove Industrial Estate, near Barnard Castle, in Teesdale, say they were not consulted by Durham County Council, and found out about the plans from local residents.

Businesses are worried the plant will cause vermin and odour problems.

The county council has already been criticised by residents over the proposal, and members of an action group have vowed to protest at the site if the plans are approved next month.

However, Teesdale District Council has recommended that the county council refuses permission for the tip and members of the Stainton Grove Action Group are hopeful the recommendation will persuade the county council to reject the plans.

Alan Heavisides, owner of Alan Heavisides Joiners, at Stainton Grove Industrial Estate, opposes the plans.

He said: "We weren't consulted at all about a waste transfer and recycling station, and although it won't ruin the business, it will affect the staff because I think there will be a horrendous smell and it will attract rats. My main gripe is the fact that we weren't told about this. It is a disgrace."

His views have been backed by other businesses on the estate, which are also worried about the odours the plant might produce.

Arthur Ellwood, director of Ellwood Spices, said: "Our unit is only 100 yards from the planned site and it is a real worry that it will cause smell and vermin problems.

"We have been here six years and I think it will have an effect on staff because of the smell it will cause.

"I didn't know anything about this until someone on the housing estate told me. It would have been nice to have been consulted."

Durham County Council yesterday said it had consulted residents and businesses.

The county council is scheduled to discuss the proposals next month.