RESIDENTS are up in arms over plans to site an electricity sub-station near their homes.

The MEB is behind the controversial scheme, which is aimed at solving problems faced by some of the power company's customers in Biddulph.

Homes in the Thames Drive and Congleton Road area are affected by fluctuations in their power supplies.

To cure this the MEB aims to instal a new high voltage supply and distribution sub-station in Congleton Road, near its junction with Thames Drive.

However the plans have angered Thames Drive residents, who claim the scheme would mean ripping up an area of grass used by local children.

''It seems such a shame to take away an area where young children play,'' said Sheila Gee from Thames Drive.

''There are lots of other places the MEB could put the sub-station, including across the other side of Congleton Road.''

The MEB says the scheme will also benefit Biddulph Valley Leisure Centre by ensuring it receives a supply which does not fluctuate.

The Moorlands district council is to due to sell a 25 square metre area of land to the MEB to allow them to instal the sub-station, which would be enclosed on three sides by a six-foot high fence and gates.

In addition trees would be planted to screen the site.

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