Power plant plans given go-ahead

Clearstone Energy will install a row of 14 gas engine generators on industrial land at Grange Lane, Brinsworth, to produce about 21MW of energy.

There were nine objections to the proposal, including concerns over pollution, unrestricted hours of business and adding to the “unsightly views” from neighbouring Phoenix Golf Club.

Clearstone director Ben Pratt said: “There’s a requirement for new fast-acting, flexible power stations that can supply capacity when the wind stops blowing or at times of peak demand.”

The nearest houses are 640 metres away over the Sheffield border and 750 metres away on Bawtry Road, Brinsworth. There would be no noise impact on residents at any time, Mr Pratt added.

Rotherham Borough Council said the air quality assessment submitted by the firm showed the increase in nitrogen dioxide would not be significant.

The authority’s planning board voted in favour of the development last Thursday (13).