PLANS for a massive solar farm have been approved – despite concerns about toxic waste on the site.

SBC Renewables has been given the go-ahead to transform the former Johnson's Lane landfill site which is located in both the Warrington and Halton boroughs.

Radioactive and chemical waste is thought to have been disposed of at the 25 hectare site, near Fiddler’s Ferry power station, when it was operated as a landfill site by ICI between 1920 and 1993.

But Warrington Borough Council's planning officers have found that there is 'no significant risk' to human health from the soil, water and air.

Councillors at the development management committee heard that the majority of the radioactive materials went to the west of the site in Halton and nothing harmful has been detected in the shallow soils.

Cllr Les Morgan, ward member for Latchford West, was the only committee member to vote against the plans.

He said: "The toxic waste is still down there. These materials remain under the ground. I'm very concerned about that."

Cllr David Keane, ward member for Penketh and Cuerdley, did not vote as he had previously objected to the proposal.

He added: "At the last committee meeting there were still some huge concerns about this application and I've been disappointment by the lack of information I've received from the Environment Agency.

"This application will improve the condition of the site but I want there to be no risk whatsoever. It's on the green belt, we don't want a monstrosity."

The solar panels will be built on the Halton part of the land with landscaping and drainage work taking place in Warrington for the general improvement of the site.

James Cook, agent for SBC Renewables, described the plans as the 'best possible option' for the site.

He also said it would put an end to the history of trespass and anti-social behaviour there.

Cllr Sheila Woodyatt, ward member for Lymm, said: "In the future, after all the remedial work, I think people won't know how awful the site used to be."

The plans were approved on the agreement that the site would be monitored and that all soil brought to the site would be chemically tested.