Recycling site to create new jobs
A new recycling plant will be built in Wolverhampton, creating 10 jobs, under plans lodged with the council.
But concerns have already been raised by people living in the Spring Valley area of the city who fear they could be affected by emissions from the plant.
Lab Geodur UK Ltd is proposing to build the facility on land just to the south of the Energy from Waste Plant (EfW) at Cross Street North.
The development would have a capacity sufficient to manage all of the incinerator bottom ash (IBA) generated by the Wolverhampton EfW and by other EfW facilities within the area.
IBA can be processed to remove the metals and to produce a useful secondary aggregate product that can be used in the construction industry, ultimately preventing waste going to landfill.
In its proposal, Lab Geodur say: "IBA is recognised as a resource which can be recycled into safe and useable aggregate products. Facilities like the site proposed at Cross Street North ensure that more waste is recycled and diverted from landfill. Therefore the development would provide considerable environmental, sustainability and economic benefits."
Henry Mein Architects were commissioned to draw up the plans.
Bushbury South and Low Hill Councillor Paul Sweet believes it's important to encourage industry and business to the city but hopes Lab Geodur heed any concerns which residents directly affected by any work may have.
He said: "On the face of it, I wouldn't be insisting against it, but I would hope that it would be a quality development.
"Spring Valley estate is a bit further down the street, and depending on the wind, emissions could possibly blow into the area, so I would hope that the company would consult residents.
"I would certainly encourage them to open honest discussions with any people living in Spring Valley who might express concerns about the development.
"The people living in the areas of new developments such as this one should always be carefully considered "
Neighbours have until January 18 to submit their comments on the plans.
The plans can be found online at www.planningonline.wolverhampton.gov.uk/online-applications/
