Jobs hope as Willenhall recycling complex set for approval

Twelve new jobs will be created at a new recycling complex in Willenhall, it was revealed today.

Plans to create a new electrical and mattress recycling complex, in Springvale Street, are tipped to get the go-ahead. The development would see a vacant industrial unit near the town centre brought back to life.

Planning officers have said permission should be granted subject to conditions. Councillors will discuss the scheme at meeting tomorrow evening. A report to the planning committee says the scheme will bring advantages for the area.

David Elsworthy, head of planning, said: "The use will bring vacant buildings back into use, create employment and improve the overall appearance of the site."

Scrap metal company Cable & Alloys Ltd based, in Springvale Street, is behind he application.

If planning permission is granted, the site will be used to manually sort recycled materials which have been shredded at another site.

Three objections have been submitted about the proposal.

Some residents have complained the existing site is an "eyesore" and is too close to residential properties.

There are also fears there will be noise, which will impact on nearby neighbours.

But the applicant insists the noise will be restricted to a forklift truck, a small compressor and a conveyor belt, with all recycling and sorting taking place indoors.

It is hoped the new jobs will go to people from the Willenhall area.

Earlier this month, planning chiefs approved plans to bring another vacant unit back to life in Willenhall.

An indoor go-karting and laser tag game centre will be built at Alvar Business Park, in Straight Road, bringing up to 14 jobs.

By Catherine Dalton