Planning body backs Centrica's consultation into Barrow biomass plant
Last updated at 13:55, Tuesday, 31 July 2012
CENTRICA is one step closer to building a biomass power station in Barrow after the Planning Inspectorate accepted the planning application and agreed the energy company has met all its obligations in undertaking a public consultation.
Centrica hopes to build an 80MW biomass plant on the site of the existing gas-fired power station at Roosecote, off Rampside Road.
The decision to accept the planning application is not a decision on whether or not Centrica can build the power station, nor is it an indication of any decision the Planning Inspectorate will make.
A spokesman for Centrica said: "We believe the proposed project would be a significant investment and would provide an important boost to the local economy, as well as providing clean, reliable renewable energy for the North West.
"We have consulted widely with local residents and businesses on our proposed plans for biomass energy generation in Barrow-in-Furness and we have been pleased at the level of engagement from the local community.
"No decision to construct this plant has yet been made; and, in the period between now and a future decision point, we will continue to listen to, and reflect on, all of the representations that are made to us. We also intend to continue to communicate to reassure people in and around Barrow about the nature of this project and make sure they have all the facts."
Ian Gambles, Director, National Infrastructure, the Planning Inspectorate said: “After careful consideration we have decided on behalf of the Secretary of State that the application submitted by Centrica met the required tests set out in the legislation to be accepted for examination.
“It is now for the developer to decide when to publicise the fact that its application has been accepted to proceed to examination and announce when members of the public will be able to register with the Planning Inspectorate as an interested party in the application”.
First published at 12:38, Tuesday, 31 July 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
I like Jimmy Foodlaw's positive business-minded statement; however there is an elephant in the room here. The Biomass Plant will bring in revenue, and lots of it, for Centrica â a global energy giant. There will be no benefit for Barrow only risk, and no new jobs except for a handful which already exist at Roosecote â a power station which Centrica say is no longer viable â well they would say that wouldn't they?
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I'm glad you like my positive business-minded statement Old John. Thankyou very much son.
Posted by Jimmy Foodlaw on 17 August 2012 at 14:29