A REVOLUTIONARY "eco park" for business and industry in the North West could rise from the derelict site of the former Huncoat power station.

Hyndburn Council has revealed draft plans for a research centre into the business applications of energies like wind, water and solar power. It would be set in attractive parkland with a lake and a natural habitat for wildlife.

It is the first major scheme for the site since millionaire Eddie Quiligotti's dream of a multi-million pound theme park called Zeri came to nothing.

Nigel Rix, the council's director of regeneration, said the idea of opening a Centre for Alternative and Sustainable Technologies was at a very early stage.

Future development, and with it hope of new jobs, hinges on a bid for several million pounds of European Regional Development Fund grant to develop the site. Mr Rix said early discussions had already been held with universities in this country and overseas. He said: "It is particularly appropriate on a site which used to gobble coal to produce power that we are seeking to perpetuate energy."

The aim is to attract specialist businesses with an interest in research and innovation.

Land ownership has been a major stumbling block, now cleared by National Power selling its interest in the site.

A consortium involving the council, and partners Lancashire County Enterprises Limited and Dublin-based Omega Pacific, is in the process of buying the land.

Cash from the European Union is needed to tackle problems including derelict structures, concrete left underground when the cooling towers were demolished, and chemical contamination.

Mr Rix said: "We want to see part of the area developed for thriving businesses to provide more employment for local people, and money spent on greening some of the land to make it attractive for people to visit."

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