ScottishPower is currently investigating the possibility of developing a high efficiency combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power station on the former Terra Nitrogen site in Severnside. The company is considering a station that will generate between 900MW to 1,200MW of electricity, which would be known as Avon Power Station.
The very first stage of consultation is set to begin this month, which will consider a range of issues including all the options available for the new power facility, the constraints and opportunities within the proposed site and a thorough evaluation of the surrounding environment. This will help ScottishPower to take decisions on the project and establish a preferred design.
Any future consultations would be scheduled for winter 2011. As the power station would generate more than 50MW it is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP). ScottishPower will need to apply for planning permission under a Development Consent Order (DCO) to the Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC), the independent body that examines applications for nationally significant infrastructure projects.
Richard Escott, Head of Project Development at ScottishPower, said: “A number of power stations in the UK are due to cease operating from 2015 onwards and, in order to guarantee long-term security of electricity supplies, it is important that energy companies continue to look at the best options for replacing the electricity generation that will be lost. The site we are examining has a long history of industrial usage, but our evaluation work will thoroughly consider all aspects of the surrounding environment.
“Our public consultations are set to begin at the end of the month, and we would encourage anyone in the area to come along to find out more about our proposals.“
Media information: Paul Ferguson 0141 566 4515 / 07702 665924
Notes to Editors:
Public exhibitions and information days will be held on the following dates:
- 2pm - 8pm Friday 24th June 2011
Severn Beach Village Hall, Ableton Lane,Severn Beach, BS35 4PP
- 1pm - 5pm Saturday 25th June 2011
Avonmouth Community Centre and Library, 257 Avonmouth Road, Avonmouth, BS11 9EN
- 2pm - 8pm Thursday 30th June 2011
Easter Compton Methodist Church, Main Road, Easter Compton, BS35 5RE