THE Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles, today granted planning permission to Peel Energy’s Barton Renewable Energy Plant (BREP).


The decision went before a public inquiry in November last year after Trafford Council refused planning permission for the plant, following a huge public backlash against the plans.


Trafford pressure group, the Breathe Clean Air Group (BCAG), which has spearheaded the campaign, has described the decision as a ‘devastating blow’.


However, Peel Energy welcomed the decision, claiming BREP will generate low carbon electricity for up to 37,000 homes.


A spokesman for BCAG said: “Today’s announcement, that the Barton Renewable Energy Plant is to go ahead, is a devastating blow to the people of Trafford, Salford and Manchester.


“The historic and unprecedented level of local opposition, including from local residents, doctors, businesses, MPs, Salford Council and all of Trafford’s Councillors, has been swept aside to make way for an outdated, dirty incinerator.”


Peel Energy project manager, Jon England, said: “We would like to thank both the secretary of state and the planning inspector for giving the plans a fair hearing. We realise that applications like these are not easy.


“However, these are exactly the kind of decisions that are required if the UK is to meet its renewable energy targets, reduce reliance on imported energy and avoid valuable resources going into landfill.


“We are very pleased with the outcome and look forward to taking the project on to the next stage, ultimately delivering renewable energy and jobs for the region.”


Construction of the £70m plan could begin in 2014, with completion expected for 2016.


According to a Peel spokesman, BREP will generate renewable electricity for at least 25 years, employing more than 100 workers during peak construction periods and providing 15 direct jobs once the plant is built.


The BCAG spokesman added: “We have got a 174 page decision document to review and discuss with our legal team.


“Once we have done this, we will look at what options we have available with regards to moving forward. We will keep everyone updated on this process as ever.”