Stockton North MP, Alex Cunningham, has expressed his anger over proposals from Statera Energy Limited, to build two gas-fired power stations, close to Thorpe Thewles.
The proposals, due to be unveiled at a public exhibition at Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles, on Tuesday 26th June, would see the previously approved plans for a battery-based electricity storage facility scrapped for a gas-fired power station – and the construction of second facility close by.
When the original plans for a power generating station were put forward in 2016, residents of Thorpe Thewles objected on congestion and environmental grounds to then see the proposal amended to a battery storage facility. They then objected to that on the same grounds and expressed concerns that the facility could be converted to a gas-powered one – and that is exactly what is now proposed.
After talking with officers from Stockton Borough Council, Alex has been told that no plans have been discussed with the local authority and the first they knew about it was when they learned of the exhibition.
Alex said:
Residents of Thorpe Thewles will be rightfully worried about this proposal. Not only are their fears that the battery-powered facility would be converted into a gas-powered one being proven correct, but now they are being told that two facilities could be built instead of one.
This is a typical strategy for some companies – they get permission for one thing and then change their minds for a most substantial development – in this case two. I would urge constituents in that area to attend the public exhibition at Grindon Parish Hall on Tuesday 26th June, find out the truth and make sure their voices are heard at this event.
That Statera Energy has yet to consult or even discuss plans with Stockton Borough Council, is also concerning. The local authority should not be bypassed on matters such as these, and I hope Statera Energy will engage with Stockton Council soon.
The public exhibition will be held on Tuesday 26th June, at Grindon Parish Hall, Durham Road, Thorpe Thewles, TS21 2JU, between 5pm and 8pm.
