A TRADERS' leader has slated the decision to allow a waste recycling plant to be built near Tadcaster - despite fears that vital groundwater used by breweries could be contaminated.

Angela Usher, chairman of Tadcaster Chamber of Trade, said she was horrified by North Yorkshire County Council's decision to approve an application to build a waste management facility at Jackdaw Crag Quarry, Stutton.

As reported in yesterday's Evening Press, councillors backed the scheme after being told that the Environment Agency was satisfied groundwater supplies would be protected from pollution, following amendments to original proposals.

But Scottish Courage, owners of one of Tadcaster's three breweries, John Smith's, continues to have concerns over possible contamination.

A spokesman told the Evening Press: "We are disappointed with the planners' decision, albeit with conditions attached.

"This does not invalidate our concerns about the risk of water contamination, and we will be working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that water quality is not impaired by the development."

Samuel Smith's Old Brewery vigorously opposed the original proposals, with consultants representing the brewery claiming there was an incalculable risk to the economy through the potential pollution of groundwater.

Coors, owners of one of Tadcaster's other breweries, also opposed the original proposals, with councillors again told that it had not come back with a response to the revised scheme.

There was no further comment today from Coors about the development.

Councillors were told the brewery had made no further comment following consultation on the revised proposals.

Asked by the Evening Press whether Samuel Smith's still had concerns over the development, a spokesman declined to comment.

Mrs Usher branded the decision an "absolute tragedy".

She said: "The breweries are the whole life system of Tadcaster. The quality of the beer is what make this town so unique.

"I can't believe that North Yorkshire County Council planners can't see the devastating effect this will have on the town.

"I'm going to do all I can on behalf of the traders to oppose this. What we need now is some professional advice."

She said a chamber of trade meeting at the Bay Horse pub, at 6.30pm next Tuesday, would discuss the issue.

Updated: 11:01 Thursday, October 23, 2003