MIDDLEWICH will miss out on a £2.5million cash boost after Covanta’s incinerator plans were thrown out by the Secretary of State.

As the dust settles following the outcome of the appeal, Brian Reay, property director for Pochin Developments has spoken out on some of the implications for the town.

He says the community will miss out on a major contribution towards the Middlewich eastern bypass that would have been made by Covanta if the £200million proposals were approved.

This in turn would have helped facilitate long term plans to complete the final phase of the town’s Midpoint 18 business park and the creation of around 2,800 jobs.

Mr Reay said: “My initial reaction was that I felt the decision was a body blow for business. “People are always fearful of something new but if they have the full facts they can make their own judgement.

“I’ve met many people who support the economic regeneration it will bring.

“It’s a big disappointment that £200million in investment and the knock-on effect on the economy has gone.”

Pochin Developments has been seeking investment for its £22m plans to link Booth Lane with Pochin Way for more than 15 years.

Mr Reay added: “We’ll be seeking discussions with Cheshire East Council because if that contribution from Covanta is not going to be available we need to know what ideas they have for how that shortfall will be made up.”

Clr Paul Edwards, ward member for Middlewich, said: “I’m glad we’re not getting an incinerator but we need to work hard to find that money from somewhere else and encourage businesses into the town.”

Town Mayor Simon McGrory added: “We must now move and put this experience behind us and press on to find more suitable employers and businesses whose aspirations to move into the area could also help find the extra funding required to complete the Midpoint 18 link road.”

Covanta’s scheme would have also created 300 temporary jobs during construction and up to 50 permanent roles.

But campaign group CHAIN argued that a waste plant would drive existing employers away and deter new ones, particularly those in the health and food industries.