Silo removal 'pre-empts' biomass plan

DEVELOPERS behind the controversial biomass plant have been accused of trying to "pre-empt" the planning decision by asking for permission to knock down a huge grain silo which has been part of the Capital's waterfront since the 1930s.

Forth Energy, a joint venture between Forth Ports and Scottish and Southern Energy, wants to tear down the B-listed structure to make way for the facility at Leith's Imperial Dock.

But, even if the council grants permission for the demolition, Forth Energy will still need to get permission from Historic Scotland because of its listed building status.

Forth Energy has been criticised for trying to "pre-empt" the planning decision on the biomass proposal by separately seeking permission to demolish the grain silo to make way for the plant.

Unlike most other planning applications, the city council will not make a decision on the biomass proposal, as all new developments that will generate more than 50 megawatts of electricity have to go before the Scottish Government for a decision.

Labour councillor Gordon Munro, who represents the Leith ward, said: "I find this approach baffling, as will others in Leith.

"In my view this demolition proposal for a Grade B listed building seeks to pre-empt due process on the biomass proposal.

"Approval to demolish will aid the twin aims of clearing the site and giving a possible out to a decision by Scottish Government ministers in favour of the biomass proposal.

"If this is not the case then why submit this application now?

"This is sharp practice and will be viewed as such by all in Leith."

Rob Kirkwood, chair of the Leith Links Residents' Association, added: "If it has such historical value then I can't understand why we would want to replace it with a building that's going to be monstrously high and bad for people's health."

The biomass proposal has already attracted around 1800 objections and looks set to become the most controversial development ever proposed in the Capital.

It now seems almost certain that a full public inquiry will be called by the Scottish Government to decide whether to approve the plans for the 360 million facility.

Calum Wilson, managing director of Forth Energy, said: "We have endeavoured to ensure that the design for our proposed renewable energy plant optimises the space within the industrial port of Leith.

"We have therefore submitted an application to demolish the grain silo building.

"We have proposed to make a historical record of the building before demolition.

"We believe that the plant would be a symbol of a green and vibrant modern city."

A spokeswoman for Historic Scotland added: "The application for listed building consent will come to us only if the City of Edinburgh Council is minded to grant the demolition."