The company behind rejected plans for a new superstore in Shipley is appealing the decision.

DB Schenker Rail (UK) Ltd had jointly applied with GMI Developments to build a supermarket, cafe, petrol station, business units and rail maintenance depot on Otley Road, but the plans were turned down in December.

The Otley Road site is home to the Crossley Evans recycling company, which would have to move to make way for the development.

Before the plans were refused, DB Schenker served notice on Crossley Evans saying it wanted the firm to move out by April.

But the recycling firm fought against the threat to its home of 100 years, with a public campaign galvanizing support and by revealing details of its own £6 million renewable fuel plan which could create 200 jobs on the site.

A DB Schenker spokesman said it could not comment on what would now happen regarding Crossley Evan’s tenancy because it “was considering appealing the decision”.

GMI managing director Chris Gilman said: “We can confirm we are lodging an appeal against our refusal in the next two weeks.”

Meanwhile, Crossley Evans boss Matthew Evans said he is continuing to work with Bradford Council tweaking the planning application he lodged in December for a biomass diversity plant.

“We’re pushing on with trying to get plans in place for our recycling,” he said.

Mr Evans said the company would also be pressing on with its desire to buy the site from DB Schenker and Network Rail.

“There’s still the potential for them to appeal. Obviously there’s an expense to them in doing that,” he said.

“It’s something we’re prepared for if they do decide that.”

GMI’s plans were turned down at a special two-day meeting in December when three rival Shipley supermarket schemes were discussed.

Councillors went against recommendations to favour GMI’s plans for a store on Otley Road, citing an increase in traffic, the loss of the Crossley Evans recycling plant and a railway link, displacement of jobs and concerns about water, electricity and sewerage.

Instead, councillors approved plans for a Morrisons superstore.