War of words erupts over 'noisy' petrol station tannoy - with VIDEO
A war of words has erupted after petrol station's new public address system was labelled 'too loud'.
The Texaco/Nisa Local on Lichfield Road, New Invention, recently installed the system to speak directly to customers, give instructions and address anyone trying to leave without paying.
But petrol station owner Shailesh Parekh has now hit back claiming Councillor Shires has created 'a storm in a teacup'.
Mr Parekh said: "Over the past few months many of my fellow service station operators have got exasperated by the relentless theft of fuel.
"So it was decided we would ask people who we couldn't identify or know to pay first. The only way to communicate this is via the tannoy.
"It never crossed my mind that it would become an issue.
"It is yet again a storm brewed up in a teacup by Ian Shires."
He said: "He also complained to the police who very dutifully turned up to interrogate us all about this tannoy system.
"I am proud to say I have turned a derelict piece of land into a thriving successful business that employs 12 people and provides business facilities to a dozen more.
"As I see it, I have made a positive difference to the residents of New Invention."
Councillor Ian Shires said he organised for Walsall Council's environmental enforcement team to make a site visit after residents had 'reported a number of issues.'
"We are trying to be reasonable here. People don't complain for the sake of it.
"All residents want is their peace back."
