Green energy: Controversial Bridgend hydrogen plant plans approved
The plans have faced significant opposition and public backlash from residents and councillors over the last few years due to the site's proximity to businesses and nearby housing.An earlier version of the application was also withdrawn after the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) lodged an objection over how hydrogen would be stored and transported at the site.Despite these concerns, and with a new application handed in, the project was later granted a hazardous substance consent at a special council planning committee that took place in February 2025.At this meeting, which lasted about four hours and led to numerous heated exchanges between residents and officers, it was determined the final decision would be that of the Welsh government as it had put a holding direction in place. Holding directions allow Welsh ministers to restrict the grant of planning permission by the local planning authority. The planning committee heard earlier that this pause was withdrawn because the issues raised "are not of more than local importance", according to the Welsh government. Following the meeting, councillor Mark John of St Bride's Minor and Ynysawdre ward added he was "mortified" by the Welsh government's decision to remove the holding direction after such a strong public sentiment against the plans.
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