CONCERNS have been raised over plans to build a huge new service station and ‘employment hub’ by the M40.

Residents are worried that the planned petrol station, 80 bed hotel, offices and warehouse at Junction 11, near Banbury, will cause big traffic problems and lead to ‘rat-running’ through villages.

Euro Garages is currently seeking planning permission for the scheme, which it says will create 1,000 new jobs.

Rosy Burke, who lives near the junction, estimates that around 400 vehicles an hour would leave the motorway to use the services, all using the same roundabout.

She said: "If Junction 11 becomes a constant traffic blackspot Banbury will become known for this and companies, shoppers, visitors will not come here and the town will become poorer for it.

"The existing companies will find it hard to operate a good delivery service to their customers and move elsewhere."

Ms Burke is also concerned that the extra houses planned for the area and the work to build the new HS2 rail line will add to the traffic problems around junction 11 and the surrounding area.

Several other residents have also raised concerns as part of the planning process.

Banbury Town Council oppose the scheme going ahead because of 'traffic management concerns.'

The developers' transport assessment found the 'proposed development would not have a detrimental impact on the local highway network.'