Explosion fears put paid to trampoline centre near fuel depot

PLANS for a Birmingham trampoline centre have been rejected on safety grounds – because it would be too close to petrol storage depot.

Operator AlRea Trampoline Park wanted to turn a disused factory building in Wood Lane, Erdington into a family attraction.

But the Health and Safety Executive objected because it is across the road from the Esso depot and would be hit if there were a Buncefield-style explosion.

In 2005 an explosion at the Buncefield oil terminal in Hertfordshire caused the largest fire ever in UK during peacetime.

It was pointed out the Fort Shopping Park, M6 motorway and offices are also close to the Esso site and so the trampoline site should go ahead.

Spokesman Steve Jones said: “This is the only building which is appropriate and available. It has been marketed for industrial use since 2013 and is still empty. It could be filled and employing people tomorrow if permission was granted.”

But Birmingham City Council planning committee members said they could not go against the health and safety warning.

Coun Gareth Moore (Con, Erdington) said: “This would be good for the area, but it’s not a site I’m comfortable with especially as there will be mostly children using it.”

Cllr Fiona Williams (Lab, Hodge Hill) also dismissed the idea the Health and Safety Executive were being over cautious.

“They take their role very seriously, this will not be a tick box exercise. We’ve seen what can happen at Buncefield.”

Cllr Bob Beauchamp (Con, Erdington) agreed: “If we go against the safety advice it would weigh very heavily on our shoulders if something happened.”

The planning committee voted by eight to one to reject the centre scheme.