'Green' energy scheme for towers

The Tinsley Towers were built 70 years ago

Energy giant E.On has submitted plans to build a "green" power station on the site of Sheffield's famous Tinsley Towers after they are demolished.

The biomass facility would be developed at Blackburn Meadows next to the M1 at a cost of £60m.

The renewable energy plant would produce enough power for about 40,000 homes by burning recycled wood and crops like willow and elephant grass.

If the scheme is approved, construction is expected to start early in 2009.

The first power would be produced in 2011.

No date has yet been set for the demolition of the 250ft (76m) cooling towers.