CHEMICAL giant Ineos Fluor has gained planning approval for the first stage of its modernisation programme - with promises to improve the environment.
The project, earmarked for the Runcorn plant, will see the replacement of mercury cell room units with state-of-the-art membrane units to increase the rate of chlorine production.
It is said to be the first stage of a multi-million pound investment with long-standing impact in terms of production levels and a cleaner environment for residents.
Ineos said the programme would have very little impact on the surrounding area, and it had conducted a thorough review of the current facilities before making a list of recommendations.
Chris Brough, operational director for planning at Halton Borough Council, said: 'In the long run, we are looking at a £300m investment.
'But more importantly than that, the new facilities are likely to be an environmental improvement.'
The scheme sets out to: Include additional columns. Include steam supplied by either a pipeline from Ineos Chlor or a new boiler on the site. Replace the cooling towers. Replace the refrigerant, nitrogen and air compressors.
In the short-term, it is anticipated the proposal will generate around 100 construction jobs.
When completed, the development will provide 10 additional full time jobs and help safeguard the 240 existing jobs on site.
The development will take up to 12 months to construct.
