Southall Power Station Plans Axed

Rejected on grounds of air pollution

Campaigners have welcomed news that a biofuel power station in Southall has been rejected.

The Secretary of State, Eric Pickles, refused permission for Blue NG's plant after a lengthy inquiry.

The power station would have used 20,000 tonnes of fuel a year, and required a land area greater than the whole of Ealing to grow the energy crops to supply it.

Ealing Councillors initially refused permission when the application was first heard last year.

Blue NG's subsequent appeal claimed that the power station would only minimally worsen local air quality and that tanker deliveries could be handled safely.

But the appeal decision notes that the proposal would have had an adverse effect on air quality, that some absolute pollution levels would be 50% above statutory limits, and that many people would be affected in a deprived area where there is already a shorter life expectancy than elsewhere in the Borough of Ealing.

Nic Ferriday, spokesperson for Ealing and West London Friends of the Earth, said:

“We are delighted the scheme was turned down and that air pollution is finally being taken seriously in the Ealing and west London.”

Nic added “But we are disappointed that the decision did not take account of the broader consequences of biofuels. Biofuels are being promoted instead of effective policies to reduce climate change. Also, using up land for biofuels is leading to deforestation and food shortages.”

July 5th, 2010.