"There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest protection of the environment is a barrier to economic growth, but plenty to suggest smart regulation is actually a stimulus to growth, " he said.
In April, Plevin agreed to erect an acoustic barrier after consultation with Tameside Council and the Environment Agency, following complaints of excessive noise at the plant.
The Environment Agency said it would close the Thames Barrier near the London stretch of the river again on Thursday evening after reopening it at 15:00 GMT.
Some residents said a semi-demountable barrier would be more sympathetic but that idea had been rejected by the Environment Agency due to the overall cost and loss of resilience against flooding, the council said.