Coalite site step closer to being redeveloped

More than 650 homes and community facilities including a school and play areas are set to be built at the toxic former site off Buttermilk Lane, Shuttlewood, after North East Derbyshire District Council granted outline planning permission to Bolsover Land Ltd.

The proposed redevelopment is expected to create about 1,500 jobs.

The Coalite site has lain derelict since 2004.

Residents have previously complained about odours coming from the old chemical works site which they have described as a blot on the landscape.

A district council spokesman said a ‘comprehensive remediation programme’ and clean up of the contaminated land must be completed on the site before any development can begin.

The spokesman added: “We welcome the development as it will provide both growth and help clean up the derelict Coalite site and follows an earlier permission granted by Bolsover District Council to develop other parts of the land for industrial use.”

Shuttlewood resident Joan Liddle said: “It’s very good news – it’s about time something was done with the site.

“It’ll be wonderful when it all happens.

“I just hope people will be able to afford the homes,” she added.

The Coalite plant, which opened in 1937, was once the largest one of its type in the world.