The project, a joint venture between Veolia and French process contractor CNIM, will create around 250 construction jobs.

The planning green light paves the way for Clugston Construction to start a £40m civils contract at the £100m energy-from-waste plant.

The PFI energy-from-waste plant at the Four Ashes Industrial Estate will handle 300,000 tonnes of Staffordshire’s waste each year.

The facility will generate 23MW enough electricity to power 32,000 homes.

The plans were amended from those originally granted planning permission in 2009.

VES chief operating officer Tom Spaul said: “The revised proposals will reduce the building’s overall footprint, size and height from that previously approved.

“It will contribute substantially to the local economy, both during and beyond the construction process, with the creation of 40 long-term jobs.”