A FUEL storage company has been accused of “back door” planning after it avoided having to get permission for 18 new tanks.

Oikos is replacing ageing tanks with new structures at its site in Haven Road, Canvey, after signing a multi-million pound deal with BP last year.

But as the site is classed as a port, it comes under the jurisdiction of the Port of London Authority and has not had to apply to Castle Point Council for planning permission.

George Whatley, of campaign group People Against Methane, said it meant the public had not been given a chance to have its say.

He said: “It’s a back door method of planning permission and it’s morally wrong.

“They have got round the system and local residents have lost the chance to object through the planning process.”

The deal with BP will see the site used as a distribution centre supplying petrol stations across the country.

Petrol will be imported on to the site via the Thames and piped to distribution centres in Northampton, Hertford, and Staffordshire.

Dave Blackwell, councillor for Canvey central, said: “I raised concerns with officers at the council, but they said because the replacements are like for like they do not need planning permission.

“But it is always concerning when work starts on something like that, especially when it is so close to the community.”

Haven Road is also the site of the works entrance to the Roscommon Way extension, a new road linking up with Northwick Corner.

Residents have complained about the number of heavy lorries using Haven Road.

Conservative councillor Ray Howard said: “I have had a lot of representations from residents. Most of the lorries going down Haven Road are actually going to Oikos, not Roscommon Way as was first thought.

“It is a shame Oikos did not need planning permission as then we could have got some money under a section 106 agreement towards improving the road or other benefits for the community. It makes a nonsense of planning.”

Oikos spokesman David Nassingham said the tanks had to be replaced as the existing ones didn’t meet new standards imposed following the Buncefield disaster. The Hertfordshire oil storage depot was destroyed by a huge blaze caused by safety failures which led to explosions.

He said: “The site is owned by the Port of London Authority. As Oikos has a very long lease the company benefits from the Port of London planning regulations.

“The Health and Safety Executive is kept informed at every stage of what’s being planned and what the safety procedures are.”

Oikos currently has 100 fuel storage tanks on site.