SCOTTISHPOWER's £30million bait to attract the backing of businesses for its controversial gas storage plant at Byley could backfire say angry objectors.

The company has pledged to plough millions into North West businesses if it wins permission for the scheme, and invited representatives to register their interest at a forum.

But Congleton Borough Councillor Rab Parry believes the move could turn more residents against the project, which is still subject to planning permission.

He said: 'I suspect it is a ploy by ScottishPower to demoralise people who oppose the plans, show them they haven't got a chance and should give up fighting.

'I think the application will probably go to a public inquiry because of its controversial nature, so they should wait for the result.

'Most people realise this has got to be fought and fought properly, but I think a move like this is most likely to anger people and strengthen the opposition. They are riding roughshod over local opinion.'

Trevor Howkins, of Holmes Chapel Parish Council, said: 'ScottishPower has made its intentions clear all along and conducted a campaign aimed at brushing aside objections from residents.

'But those who are close to the issue will see straight through it and realise it is just a ploy. The most important thing is the environmental impact it could have on the area - it is a risk we don't need.'

Objectors claim the gas plant, which provoked widespread opposition, could lead to 'acid rain' falling on Middlewich, Sandbach and Holmes Chapel.

ScottishPower estimates around half of the £60million total cost would be spent on civil, mechanical and electrical contracts given to businesses in the region.

Hundreds of business leaders showed their interest in the project by attending a meeting to discuss future opportunities, held at Winnington Hall, Northwich.

A company spokesman said: 'ScottishPower has always stated that we will use local businesses and local skills wherever possible should the planning application be successful.

'We have used business forums at other developments to discover more about the local skill base and this was the reason behind the event at Northwich. It was also an opportunity for local businesses to discover the type of skills and services the project will require.'

The project would create 180 jobs during construction, and 10 permanent jobs when the facility is up and running, if it is given the green light.