Plans for a hydroelectric power generator in Trafford could be expanded.
The facility at Irlam Locks on the Manchester Ship Canal was originally granted planning permission from both Trafford and Salford City councils last year, as it sits between the two authority's boundaries, but now developers want to make it bigger.
The Irlam Locks generator has the potential to generate up to 1.6MW of renewal energy; enough to power more than 380 homes; saving the equivalent of more than 700 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
Now, those behind the scheme, Renewables First, have submitted revised plans for the plant asking for permission to build a bigger powerhouse size; which would see the facility's power generating capacity raised by up to 20 per cent.
The scheme is expected to last for 40 years and will be part of a wider drive for hydroelectric power across Greater Manchester and Warrington, lead by developers Peel L&P Ltd.
When approved by Trafford Council last year, a number of conditions were put in place for the facility, including a redesign.
Now, with calls for a bigger powerhouse as part of the plans, the aim is to provide locally generated renewable electricity for decades, contribute to emission reduction targets and improve fish passage at the site for a variety of species; contributing to a more ecologically diverse and healthier river.
The plans also give the opportunity to monitor the ship canal's fish population more closely and better understand behaviour and migratory patterns.
It is understood that Renewables First's agent sought advice from Trafford Council's planning department, on January 14 2020, before this new application was submitted.
Trafford Council is yet to decide on this request for a larger power house.
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