A new recycling and refuse plant is to be built in South Cheshire, replacing Pyms Lane which is to be sold to Bentley.
Cheshire East Council wants to build a multi-purpose depot on the site of the disused Ideal Standard factory in Middlewich.
The derelict plot has been earmarked as the borough’s main recycling centre and new headquarters for Ansa Environmental Services – the council’s operating company for recycling and Streetscape services.
The site, on Cledford Road, has been bought for £2.41 million and plans would involve the transfer of up to 400 jobs to Middlewich.
Meanwhile, the current Pyms Lane site serving Crewe and Nantwich families is to be sold to Bentley Motors for its new £40m investment, creating 300 new jobs.
Cheshire East says a public consultation exercise involving key interest groups received nearly 800 responses, with the majority supporting the strategy.
Cllr Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “This is the second piece of the jigsaw that will enable Bentley to make their ambitious expansion plans happen – but it’s also vitally important for the council in its own right.
“The current depot sites will not be suitable for the next 20 years and because of their size and location are not viable for redevelopment.
“A single, larger and more central depot that can be equipped to deliver the council’s ambitious strategy is the only viable solution.
“There will be no energy from waste at the new site in Middlewich.”
Cllr David Topping, Cheshire East Council’s Cabinet member in charge of service commissioning, said: “This is an ideal opportunity to begin to realise the council’s strategy with a new, purpose-built facility.
“There are numerous benefits to having one location, such as removing duplication of weighbridges, transfer sheds and vehicle maintenance.
“Not only will there be no cuts but the development of the new depot will actually create jobs in rural communities.”
Kevin Melling, managing director of Ansa, said: “We want to create a new, modern multi-purpose depot that will cater for a wide range of vital services.”
A date for the move is still to be decided, with relevant planning permission and environmental studies to be obtained.
(pic for illustration only, under creative commons)
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