A CONTROVERSIAL scheme for an electricity generating water powered turbine at Salts Mill Weir has taken a step forward.

A new planning application by Bradford Council for the hydro electric turbine, complete with fish race and viewing platforms, has now been lodged with planners.

The water power plant on the River Aire by Roberts Park will continue a legacy of drawing power from the river which began in the 15th century.

Although construction costs will depend on variable factors and be balanced against future income from sale of the electricity generated, estimates suggest that the cost will be between £1 million and £1.2 m, which would be recuperated in around nine to 12 years.

As well as providing renewable energy, the hydro electric plan would also provide an educational resource with students able to use CCTV to view a 'fish ladder' designed to allow safe passage for eels and even salmon.

Plans have been updated since draft proposals in 2012 which attracted criticism from Shipley Conservative MP Philip Davies and local groups including Saltaire History Club, which likened the suggestion to putting solar panels on the Pyramids.

The Friends of Roberts Park was also among those opposed. However treasurer Richard Freeman said the group now had an open mind.

"We will be having our next meeting on Wednesday, February 4 at Salts Sports Club and will discuss the application fully and hopefully reach a conclusion," he added.

The public was consulted on the latest designs in October.

JSA Consulting acts as the agent on the plans.

In a statement submitted with the planning application it said overall the scheme would result in the loss of certain elements and the introduction of new features.

"Construction will be an intensive affair that will result in a degree of visual disruption and some short-term adverse impacts," it said.

"However, the mitigation proposed is intended to respond sympathetically to the unique location, whilst incorporating contemporary elements that reflect a development that is both innovative and fitting within the context of the industrial heritage of the site."

A heritage statement prepared by consultants states the scheme will make a significant contribution towards the Council’s renewable energy targets of generating 20 per cent of its energy needs by renewable energy sources.

It also notes there is limited scope within and around Saltaire for generation of energy from solar roof panels on domestic properties due to its unique World Heritage Site status.

A weir was first built on the site in 1635 in order to serve the earliest known building next to the site called Dixon Mill, which was a watermill and dependent upon a reliable supply of water.

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