THE DROITWICH canals project will be a disaster for the town, causing landslides, destroying rare birds nest sites, and maybe even posing an explosion threat.

At least that is the view of an anonymous letter writer, who apparently works for Wychavon District Council.

The writer, who goes under the name A Whistleblower and uses Wychavon District Council-headed paper, says that the plans for the canals will throw the town into disarray.

He or she has sent in two different letters to the Evening News about the initiative and has also been in touch with other forms of local media.

In the first letter, A Whistleblower claims the plan is causing concern among residents in Chawson Valley, who fear their properties will be damaged by any building work.

"Wychavon District Council wants to excavate the area and form moorings, promoting custom for a pub and shops planned opposite," states the letter.

"Canal builder, James Brindley, originally created a breakwater and planted the reeds to absorb boat bow waves that would wash away local loose sub-soil.

"Canal groups and canal side residents fear possible bank erosion with possible property damage."

A Whistleblower then goes on to say that the same works will endanger a rare nest site of reed warblers.

"There are people who think the site should be registered as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)."

In the latest letter, sent yesterday, the writer claims campaigners fear an explosion if the canal plan goes ahead.

"Experts warn that extension pilings required to develop waterside apartments and office blocks on the former site of an old gas works at Netherwich Basin, Vines Park, may release trapped gas pockets or disturb residual chemical soil deposits.

"Any local burn-off may ignite nearby chemical works in Union Lane, causing an explosion."

Wychavon District Council said it is unconcerned about the letters, which it admitted probably came from an internal employee, and said the allegations were "without substance".

"We have been in discussions with the various organisations involved with the canals project," said head of legal services, Ian Marshall.

"With regards to the rare birds nest site, the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust have assured us they do not consider it an issue.

"The same can be said for the subsidence allegations. We have been in touch with the British Waterways board and decided everything is OK.

"We have always been in touch with British Waterways regarding the possibility of releasing any gas. As with any development, we will make sure proper health and safety precautions are taken.

"It seems quite possible this person does work for us, but we are not concerned as the allegations are without substance."

Do you have any fears about the allegations made by A Whistleblower, or do you think it is complete nonsense?

Either way, call reporter Suzanne Black on 01905 742263.