Firm plans new coal power station

RWE Npower is proposing a £2bn plant on the site of the former Blyth Power Station – which was demolished four years ago.

The firm, which has submitted limited plans to the government, says the new station would be cleaner and could create more than 150 jobs.

However, Blyth Valley Council has said the proposal does not fit with regeneration plans in the area.

Less carbon

Reay Charlton, RWE Npower’s head of operations, said environmental tests and comprehensive consultation would take place before any firm proposals were submitted to the Department for Trade and Industry.

He said: “A new Blyth power station would utilise the latest technology to deliver the most efficient, cleanest and sustainable coal-fired generation possible.

“It would be very advanced compared to the original station that was built between 1955 and 1966.”

The new plant, which could be operational by 2014, would emit 22% less carbon than existing coal-fired power stations and would be designed to use “carbon capture and storage” technology when it becomes viable.

‘Clean industry’

It would also have the capacity to burn carbon-neutral fuels known as “biomass”.

Dave Stevens, leader of Blyth Valley Council, said he was not convinced a new power station would help the area’s redevelopment.

“We’ve got to consider it in the context of the way Blyth has changed in the last 15 to 20 years.

“It was a very heavy industry led area but now we have revamped it.

“We are looking for clean industry, quality homes and a quality environment.”

Information from: news.bbc.co.uk