Proposals for a major hydrogen production facility in Bradford have taken a step forward with approval by the city’s council.

Hygen and N-Gen will turn the former Birkshall gas storage site into a plant that will produce low carbon hydrogen aimed at decarbonising vehicles and industry. Once operational the Bowling Back Lane facility will be able to produce about 12.5 tonnes of hydrogen per day using electrolysis – the process of splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen.

The scheme received funding through the Government’s £2bn Hydrogen Production Business Model allocation round last year. At the time, developers said it would provide a blueprint for how similar, complex projects could be delivered.

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Gareth Mills, managing director at N-Gen, said: “We are extremely proud to be bringing a flagship hydrogen production facility and significant investment to Bradford. The site was once home to gas holders, which stored natural gas used by the residents and businesses in Bradford, so it is fitting that the site will continue its heritage and now be used for the production and storage of hydrogen, a cleaner fuel.

“We expect the facility to be a valuable addition to the Bradford economy, providing a viable way for local businesses to decarbonise, as well as attracting new companies and jobs to the area, by placing the city at the forefront of the transition to clean energy.”

The refuelling facilities will be open to businesses and other users in West Yorkshire with distribution firm Ryze delivering the fuel across the region.

Jamie Burns, director at Hygen, said: “The granting of planning permission is a significant step in the development of a facility which will provide enormous benefits to the people of Bradford and the surrounding area. Along with our partners, we have worked tirelessly to develop these plans, which will provide a blueprint for how complex projects like this can be delivered, boosting the hydrogen and green economies of the UK.”