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BBC: Kronospan biomass plan to 'secure jobs' at Chirk factory

04/02/2014

Plans for a biomass energy-producing plant at Kronospan's chipboard factory in Chirk have been given the go ahead by Wrexham councillors.

The company submitted revised plans although it had been given permission to build a larger waste-burning plant in 2012 despite local objections.

The chipboard manufacturer said it wanted to use waste material generated in its production process as fuel.

It said it would reduce energy costs and help safeguard 600 jobs.

The factory currently uses gas-fired boilers and gas turbines on site.

A report to Wrexham council's planning committee said approximately 62,000 tonnes of biomass would be used annually and sourced from on-site wood residues. It would not require further fuel being imported to the site.

The report to Monday night's Guildhall meeting supported the plans, subject to some conditions, saying there were "significant environmental and economic benefits".

It said the company's justification for the plans was that "the biomass plant would help secure the site for its 600 employees and 2,500 people indirectly employed by Kronospan's operations".