WORK is due to begin on the site for the controversial Barton Renewable Energy Plant in Davyhulme.

Peel Energy is believed to be about to start work to ensure planning approval for the site does not lapse.

Developers have a three-year period in which to start work once planning permission has been granted, and Peel's planning permission was due to expire on May 15.

Trafford Council has not been advised of the precise extent of the works which will take place, but it is understood it involve the construction of fencing and an access road.

The Breathe Clean Air Group (BCAG) has led calls against Peel Energy’s biomass-fired power station, which is designed to bring power to 37,000 homes by burning mainly recycled wood, virgin timber, energy crops and agricultural residues.

The scheme was opposed by Trafford Council but passed by the Secretary of State following a public enquiry.

Peel amended their application in 2016, with the company citing the need to investigate whether the plant could also supply heat, as well as energy, to nearby homes and businesses.

The plant is planned to be built near the M60 Barton high level bridge over the Manchester Ship Canal.

Mason Corbishley, from BCAG, said: "This is a tragic day for Trafford, Salford and the rest of Greater Manchester. 
"We have a right to breathe clean air. Children's lungs will not develop fully in an atmosphere polluted with burnt waste. People playing sport nearby will be polluted and older people's health will deteriorate. This Incinerator is too close to houses, shops, schools and sports facilities and should never have been contemplated to be built in Davyhulme, in an Air Quality Management Area. We will be condemned 24/7 for at least 25 years."