School and lake concerns over Rugeley Power Station plans

Up to 2,300 homes are earmarked for the 139 hectare (343.48 acre) Rugeley Power Station site, which occupies land in two districts. The power station closed in 2016 and is currently being demolished.

Site owner Engie recently submitted a planning application to Cannock Chase Council and Lichfield District Council, proposing up to five hectares (12.34 acres) of employment space, 1.2 hectares (2.97 acres) of “mixed use” land, public open space and new roads as well as a primary school and the new homes

The authorities are due to make their decisions at a later date. But on Monday Lichfield District Council’s planning committee members were given an opportunity to raise issues the would like to be considered at the decision making stage.

Councillor Richard Cox said: “I see we have educational provision and I’m aware of what that means.

"But in the current setting by the lake there was an environmental education centre built there some years back and anglers that used the lake.

“Looking at what’s going in front of us that provision may be lost. I need to be assured there are facilities elsewhere to replace it – I wonder if that could be explored.”

But a landscape design statement submitted as part of the application referred to future use of the lake, which is also known as the “Borrow Pit”. It stated: “The Borrow Pit (provides) an opportunity to create lakeside residences, community facilities and recreational space.

“The Borrow Pit will become a focal point for recreational water sports, encouraging activities such as swimming, fishing and kayaking. There is the opportunity to provide facilities for equipment hire as well as community organised events.”

Councillor Jamie Checkland said: “I’m interested to see the solar panel field – will that make it energy neutral? I’m all in favour of green energy.

“I note there is primary school provision – can we ensure sufficient secondary school provision is put in?”

Councillors also highlighted the importance of pedestrian and cycle path links.

Committee chairman Councillor Thomas Marshall said: “It’s a very significant development; 2.300 homes is almost another small town being tagged onto the end of Rugeley.

"There is 84 hectares (207.57 acres) that belongs to Lichfield and 55 hectares (135.91 acres) belongs to Cannock Chase.

“It’s a very significant area for both authorities. I feel (Engie) really want to deliver something special here. I hope as a local authority we can do everything we can to facilitate that.”