HC Deb 15 June 2000 vol 351 c700W
Dr. Naysmith

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he will announce his decision on Northern Electric plc's proposal to build a gas-fired power station at Sevelco works, Avonmouth. [126774]

Mrs. Liddell

The proposal to build a new 180 MW gas-fired combined heat and power station at the Sevelco works, Avonmouth, has several potential benefits particularly those to the local area in terms of atmospheric pollution and the requirements of the Environment Agency for a pollution control arrangement. The Station being combined heat and power, albeit not fully meeting the criteria given in the Energy White Paper, the benefits are such that I have decided not to use my powers, under section 14(3) of the Energy Act 1976, to defer or halt this project. However, local planning and other clearances are still required under section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989.

I have placed copies of this Press Notice and the decision letter in the Library of the House.