Ironbridge Power Station redevelopment: Newts are to get their own pond haven
Wildlife ponds that will allow the redevelopment of the former Ironbridge Power Station have been granted planning permission.
The haven will be created by site owners Harworth to stop any damage to a colony of great crested newts that live in the area around the power station.
The move has been approved by Shropshire Council and is a key part of plans to transform the site.
Environment watchdog Natural England has also backed the idea for the haven.
Great crested newts, their eggs, breeding sites and resting places, are protected by law and any infringements can result in an unlimited fine and up to six months in prison.
FCPR Environment and Design Ltd, on behalf of Harworth, states: “This strategy will require translocation of the great crested newt population from the power station area to a ‘mitigation (or receptor) area’, and for the subsequent trapping and translocation of the proposed consented demolition area to be undertaken within the provisions of a European Protected Species licence.”
The planning decision notice issued by the council says that measures are also in place to protect ancient woodland at the site.
It states: "Prior to the commencement date a buffer zone of not less than 10m shall be physically demarcated along the entire southern margin of the site taking into account the likely location of the roots of the ancient and semi natural woodland trees within the adjoining Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Conditions
"The buffer zone shall be maintained for the duration of the construction phase and within the buffer zone there shall be no excavation works and no movement of heavy machinery shall take place.
"To protect the ancient woodland."
The new report added that under root protection measures mature hedgerow trees at the site will be protected.
The scheme has been granted planning permission with conditions including that the work must start within three years, must be carried out in 'strictly in accordance with the approved plans', and highway access during the work must be agreed.
Public consultation on the future of the Ironbridge Power Station site is continuing.
Within the next two decades it will be demolished and hundreds of homes, shops and leisure facilities will take its place.
As well as the homes, plans could include retirement living, family housing, starter homes and a holiday village.
Other suggestions include a park and ride, a business hub, an art gallery and a farmers' market.
