"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.
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.
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.
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.