A major step to creating up to 2,300 homes and new jobs on the site of the former Rugeley Power Station (Rugeley, Staffordshire) is set to take place next week.
The Rugeley site has been earmarked for significant development consisting of housing, 12.3 acres of employment space, with a further 3 acres set aside for mixed-use developments. A new two-form entry primary school has also been included in the plans.
Lichfield District Council's planning committee is set to vote on the application at a meeting on Monday 13th January. Cannock Chase District Council's planning committee will also consider the scheme at a meeting on Wednesday 15th January. The projects planning officers have recommended that the go-ahead for the 343-acre site is granted.
The site closed back in 2016, owned by form occupant Applicant Engie - a low-carbon energy services and regeneration business. Demolition of much of the site's infrastructure, excluding the substations, is currently being undertaken and is due to be completed by 2021. The homes would be constructed on phases over a number of years, leading up to 2040, with the entire development completed over the same period.
A document published by Lichfield District Council ahead of the meeting stated:
"Economically the proposal will provide direct and indirect employment opportunities, through creating a development opportunity, which includes employment generating uses and whose future residents would support existing and proposed facilities within the area.
"Socially, the proposal would have little impact upon existing residents, whilst suitable conditions can secure the amenity of future residents within the site.
"In addition, the scale of development is compliant with the requirements of the council’s Development Plan.
"Environmentally, the site occupies a location where any landscape harm will be localised.
"It is considered that adequate, high quality public open space will be provided on site, to meet the needs of future and existing residents, whilst replacement and enhanced sports provision, will be provided on site to ensure the health and well-being of existing and future residents.
"The number of dwellings and mix proposed, will provide a suitable density of development to integrate into the character of the area, whilst also helping to meet the housing needs of the district."
