London-based MCA Regeneration is looking into the possibility of creating a 40 hectare site featuring MRFs, reprocessing companies and businesses which manufacture goods from recycled materials.
The consultancy will spend the next three months looking at the demand for an 'E;nvironmental Technologies Park' at Hill Top in West Bromwich. It will also be looking at how the site could help recycling rates in the area.
Plans suggest the site would house start-up businesses, existing local firms and innovative global leaders coming together to create a leading centre for research and development. The park would cut down the need for travelling between different stages of the recycling process.
James Watson, who is leading the study for MCA is positive about current plans. “There is already a good atmosphere for recycling in this area and I think there is great potential for businesses old and new to set up.
“Wood recyclers West Bromwich Pallets and Enviromulch are nearby and battery recyclers G&P; are only a mile away. There is a real live business atmosphere here, and transport links to the Hill Top site are excellent,” he added.
Several organisations are working on the project so far, including urban regeneration company RegenCo, which is leading the project, regional regeneration group Advantage West Midlands and community organisation Urban Mines.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough council, which has historically had a low recycling rate is also involved in assessing the viability and need for such a site. Mr Watson said: “Recycling rates in this area are not especially good and we believe a park like this would give Sandwell and the other local councils a very real boost.”
RegenCo estimates the overall transformation of the park will be based on a 30-year plan that will first see the necessary infrastructure put in place to support the development. The plans include the creation of a distributor road to enhance communications.
Other specific features of the proposed site will include the creation of artificial lakes to enhance the aesthetics of the area; new business incubator space and leisure facilities such as cafes and restaurants.
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