Ferrybridge: Plans to redevelop former power station approved

At its peak in the 1970s more than 800 people were employed at the site

Plans to redevelop a former West Yorkshire power station site, creating up to 2,500 jobs, have been approved.

Wakefield Council backed proposals to transform the Ferrybridge C power station site in Knottingley into a major industrial and employment zone.

But, councillors said more should be done to maximise the potential for rail and water transport at the facility.

Work on the site, which is next to the River Aire, is expected to start later this year.

The site's eight 380ft (115m) high cooling towers at were a familiar landmark to drivers on the nearby A1(M) road.

The structures were demolished in phases between 2019 and 2022 after the plant closed in 2016.

Developers Mountpark Logistics said up to 2,500 jobs could be created by the scheme, which could generate £130m a year for the local economy.

Robert Gilmore, from the company, said: "The site has a strong industrial heritage and its economic development will bring new investment to the area.

"Interest in the site is strong and occupiers are keen to invest in the Wakefield and West Yorkshire economies."

The scheme includes building new roads to improve access to the old coal yard, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Works are also planned on Kirkhaw Lane and the Old Great North Road.

Construction costs are expected to be about £110m, with 86 full-time jobs created during the building phase.

Mr Gilmore said rail tracks which loop the site would be maintained and access to a wharf on the river would be retained for future use.

'Trains like merry-go-round'

The meeting was told highways improvements would help reduce traffic congestion in the centre of Ferrybridge.

Committee members said they hoped more could be done to encourage alternatives to road transport when more detailed building plans were submitted.

Councillor Steve Tulley said: "Trains used to go in and out of that coal yard like a merry-go-round for years.

"We are now looking at probably 300 to 400 lorry movements a day.

"Why isn't more emphasis being put on the rail links into this place if we are going to have a green agenda?"