More than 8,500 campaigners have now joined the protest against Canatxx's proposals – as the date for the long-awaited decision is revealed.

In just over two months – on January 27 – Lancashire County Council will hold a special meeting to discuss the American firm's proposals to build a £300m, 1.2m tonne gas storage facility in Preesall under the River Wyre.

Up to now, just 97 letters of support have been received.

Ian Mulroy, chairman of Protect Wyre Group, said: "We are more confident than ever the evidence against Canatxx will be sufficient for the application to be dismissed.

"We can accept that no-one sets out to cause an accident or a disaster but most of the fires and explosions we hear about concerning gas storage and escapes are caused by unplanned and unforeseen accidents."

Long-time campaigner June Jackson believes the huge fight launched against the plans is big enough to get the result they want.

Mrs Jackson, a Stalmine farmer, said: "8,500 objections is a good figure. I'm feeling very positive.

"Canatxx haven't answered the Secretary of State's concerns. We are ready for the fight."

And Joan Humble, Blackpool North and Fleetwood MP, said: "Our message to Canatxx is 'No' and I hope LCC will join us in this.

"My constituents are still very concerned about the safety issues and I believe Preesall is the wrong place for this development."

A Canatxx spokesman added: "Canatxx, alongside the independent British Geological Survey and other world-renowned experts in gas storage, have presented the most extensive database of information ever produced for a project of this nature.

"Quite simply, the science proves Preesall salt is perfectly suitable for the storage of gas.

"We welcome the news that the council plan to determine the application on January 27 and we will continue to work tirelessly to provide the council with all of the information they require to make an informed decision."

And Canatxx chief executive Paul Grimes has previously said: "The caverns cannot blow up, they cannot collapse, they are inherently safe."

Representations on the Canatxx planning application can be made up until the date of the meeting.

For the full story, see Thursday's Gazette.