Controversial energy plant next to M5 set for go-ahead

The plans were put on hold earlier this year after councillors demanded more information but the scheme has now been recommended for approval at a meeting this week.

Labour deputy leader Mr Watson sent a letter of objection on behalf on his constituents complaining the building would be too large and could lead to traffic problems in the area.

A petition against the plant, described as an ‘enormous monstrosity’ by one resident, was signed by 450 people.

Designs have shown the metallic factory towering over the M5.

However, planning experts at Sandwell Council say they are satisfied with the scheme, paving the way for the development to go ahead.

They said they were unconcerned by the scale of the building, stating it would be a ‘landmark’ for the area.

The 10,000sq m energy recovery facility would be built at Giffards Recycling, off Kelvin Way, in West Bromwich, and convert 400,000 tons of waste into electricity a year.

A planning report ahead of a meeting tomorrow, when a final decision will be made, said: “The proposal with bring a high-quality, renewable energy plant and employment opportunity onto an allocated employment site.

“With regard to visual impact there is no doubt that the building and chimney would be visually imposing, particularly when viewed from the M5, canal and wider area.”

“However, it is considered that the proposal would represent a landmark building similar to the college building.” Experts also said increased traffic would not have a ‘significant impact’ on surrounding roads.

The report continued: “I can understand the depth of feeling expressed by residents.

“However, this type of facility in this industrial location has already been accepted by the local planning authority via adoption of the development plan policies and approval of earlier consents.

“The design has been carefully considered to ensure that the building has a striking and aesthetically pleasing appearance.”