Jobs joy at old factory

Up to 100 jobs could be created at a planned new computer recycling business in Stourport, it was revealed today. Up to 100 jobs could be created at a planned new computer recycling business in Stourport, it was revealed today.Severntech Ltd wants to use the former Collins & Aikman factory in Steatite Way for a computer dismantling and recovery centre. The firm has written to residents about the proposals and organised a public meeting.

Bosses have assured families living close by there will be no hazardous processes taking places at the site and the noise will be within current guidelines.

The plastic computer casings will be broken down in existing granulators which the firm is assuring residents is no louder than 70 decibels, the legal limit being 75 to 80.

The firm has said between 60 and 100 people will be employed at the site.

Claire Osborn, a planner for chartered surveyors Harris and Lamb said: "The site comprises a former factory unit and is surrounded by residential land.

"The site has been used for industrial purposes for a number of years prior to this application without precluding the residential amenity for adjoining residential neighbours."

Anyone who wants to comment on the application has got until January 11 to send their views to Wyre Forest District Council, the planning authority in the matter.

It is the latest good news for employment in the area. Last month the Express & Star revealed up to 200 jobs could be created under plans for a £5 million recycling centre on the site of a former forge in Kidderminster.

Permission is being sought to convert the Stourport Road buildings which once housed Folkes heavy industrial forge.

The centre would be used for the cleaning and sorting of waste and production of materials including metals, plastics, sand and stone.

If given planning permission by the county council, the centre is expected to create at least 100 jobs initially, with the possibility of these being doubled by 2012.

By Rebecca Jones