RWE owns a high-pressure gas pipeline which crosses the site, at the junction of Yarmouth Road and the Caister by-pass, where developers want to build a petrol station, McDonald's and drive-thru coffee shop.

The company says the current plans would see buildings "constructed in very close proximity" to the pipeline, which connects Bacton gas terminal to Great Yarmouth power station.

In a letter to planning officals at Great Yarmouth Borough Council, the energy firm says this “raises significant health concerns in relation to a heightened risk of major accidents during construction and operation of the development”.

The patch of land where a new petrol station, McDonalds and coffee shop could be built in Caister. (Image: Google Maps)

It stresses it is “not against the principle of development on this site” but will maintain its objection until the layout is changed to provide “adequate pipeline protection and suitable separation distances from buildings”.

RWE says it is willing to work with the applicant “to ensure a suitable development layout is achieved”.

Plans for a new service area at the junction of Yarmouth Road and the Caister by-pass. (Image: McDonalds and Scurr Architects)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which was initially consulted because the site lies within the consultation distance of a major hazard pipeline, is no longer objecting to the plans after being told the pipe is laid in thick‑walled sections.

The plans are also facing objections from eight members of the public - one said they were "very worried" about the proximity of the pipeline - as well as Norfolk County Council which noted the absence of an acceptable Flood Risk Assessment.

A digital image of how a new McDonalds restaurant in Caister could appear. (Image: Planware Ltd)

The patch of land off the junction of Yarmouth Road and Pump Lane in Caister that could be transformed into a new service area. (Image: Google Maps)

Anglian Water has objected, saying two large sewer pipes cross the site and cannot be built over.

Essex and Suffolk Water also raised concerns, saying the proposed entrance to the site would affect a strategic water main and would require a diversion.

According to the planning application, the development would create up to 165 jobs, including 75 full-time and 90 part-time roles at the petrol station, restaurant and coffee shop.

© Eastern Daily Press