Controversial incinerator plans come under the spotlight

Controversial plans for an incinerator plans to open on Mearclough Road, Sowerby Bridge, come under the spotlight again next Monday. (Picture: Google Maps)

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet will discuss an application for an environmental permit to operate a small waste incinerator at Mearclough Road, Sowerby Bridge, on June 11 (6pm) when it meets at Halifax Town Hall.

Calder Valley Skip Hire Ltd has applied for the permit.

Due to the level of public interest and concern about this application, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet has requested a full report to consider all the relevant information before a decision is taken.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet member for Communities and Neighbourhoods Services, Councillor Susan Press (Lab, Todmorden), said: “This application has received a lot of concern from local residents.

“Cabinet will take into account representation both for and against the permit and consider all of the evidence before reaching a decision.”

The application was received in October 2017 and since that time consultation has taken place, with representations received from local people and the Environment Agency, Public Health England, Natural England and Calderdale Council’s Planning, Countryside and Public Health teams.

A number of objections were raised in the public consultation, including concerns about the adverse impact on local communities, the absence of planning permission for an incinerator and issues with regulatory compliance.

When determining an Environmental Permit, officers have to consider a number of technical factors including the protection of the environment and human health, and European legislation.

In addition to these, a number of specific issues have been considered, including representations made during the consultation.

Although the recommendation of officers is to grant the application, it is open to Cabinet to make their own decision, giving a statement of reasons for granting or refusing a permit.

If the application is refused, the applicant is able to appeal against the decision.

If approved, planning permission, if needed, would have to be obtained before any development could take place.