A PLAN to turn Droitwich fire station into an urban rescue centre that could be involved in the aftermath of terrorist attacks is expected to be approved this week.

The application for the Friar Street site see would mean extending the back of the building to house three urban search and rescue vehicles and a training centre.

The new units would be used in the case of civil disasters and are part of a nationwide initiative to be better prepared for major incidents, including terrorist attacks.

The application has eased fears that the station would be moved closer to the motorway - but not everyone is pleased.

Representations made by three nearby residents and Alder Recruitment, also in Friar Street, raised concerns about traffic safety, increased noise pollution, loss of light and possible devaluation of property prices.

But officers at Wychavon District Council say the concerns are not good enough reasons to refuse the application, though some amendments might be needed to minimise disruption.

The development control committee will decide the bid on Thursday.