THE expansion of a rural Worcestershire food producer has led to a bid for polytunnels.

Valefresco of Offenham, near Evesham, wants to add another 19 tunnels to the 142 already on the site off Gibbs Lane, which it says are needed to extend the growing season for salad crops amid rising consumer demand.

Although the site is in the flood plain, both the Environment Agency and Wychavon District Council’s planning officers believe surface water run-off can be dealt with and have raised no objections.

Planning officers have recommended approval for the plans on condition the business owners advise its drivers, suppliers and packers to use Gibbs Lane, Main Street and Three Cocks Lane to get to and from the site.

Wychavon District Council planning committee meets tomorrow to decide the application.