A CATERING boss has offered to meet residents objecting to his plans for a new office and distribution centre near their homes.

Central Catering managing director Alec Bowman claims his plan for new premises on Pelham Street, Morris Green, could bring 40 new jobs to the area.

But a residents' action group has handed a 250-strong petition to local councillors in a bid to block the plan.

They claim the development would cause traffic hazards, provide a sheltered meeting place for unruly youths and remove a popular open green area currently enjoyed by children and the elderly.

Two groups have joined together to fight the plans, the Morris Green Lane Action Group and the residents of Kenyon Rise Anchor Housing Association complex.

Action Group secretary Doreen Ridyard said: "The storage of any food commodities on the premises could be a factor in helping the present rodent population to increase in numbers, causing a serious health risk.

"I am also concerned about the storage of hazardous material on these premises."

Central Catering, currently based at the Wigan Rugby League stadium is seeking new premises because the ground is set to be demolished to make way for a supermarket development.

Mr Bowman said: "I am a Bolton man and when we were looking for locations I was delighted at the prospect of bringing new jobs to Bolton.

"We run a fleet of mobile catering units for sporting and other major events around the country.

"But I can assure residents there will be no mass activity, just two or three vehicles per day. The site would be fenced with CCTV cameras and everything will meet health regulations."

He added: "I am quite prepared to discuss concerns with residents before the application is considered at Bolton Council."

Anyone with concerns can call Mr Bowman on 01942 497594.

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