Battle lines drawn in biomass boiler row near Market Drayton

Malcolm Carter, who lives in Tyrley, near Market Drayton, said that he believes the developer behind a six-megawatt biomass boiler plant has not being granted permission from Shropshire Council.

Now, a group of residents have begun an action group to oppose any future or current plans for a scheme close to the Tyrley Locks.

He said: “Biomass emissions of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter and sulphur dioxide will have severe impacts on the health of local children and older adults.

"Prevailing winds across the site would spread harmful fumes into our homes and these noxious gases are known to be carcinogenic.”

"The majority of local residents are totally opposed to a commercial biomass plant being situated around 100 metres from their homes that will affect our rural environment and produce high levels of nitrous oxide and particulates - this prospect is completely unacceptable.

"The site is immediately adjacent to the Tyrley Locks conservation area that requires protection from semi-industrial damage.

"Six megawatts of heat capacity is a huge amount given the relatively small size of the adjoining agricultural shed which would form a drying room."

Barry Jenks added: “Dust, noise and heavy goods traffic have been a constant problem from this site for years and this latest scheme has six large flue stacks that will have a totally unacceptable visual impact on the Tyrley Wharf conservation area”

Last month, Shropshire Council confirmed it was currently carrying out an ongoing enforcement investigation at Tyrley Farm in Woodseaves, near Market Drayton.

Tim Rogers, Shropshire Council’s development planning manager, said: “This matter is the subject of an ongoing enforcement investigation, and therefore Shropshire Council are not able to comment at this stage.”

Mr Carter claimed that he now believed the developer has been asked to apply for full planning permission for the build.