Plans for waste incinerator at Kellingley Colliery expected to be approved

Controversial plans for a waste incinerator at Kellingley Colliery are expected to be given the go ahead today (Tuesday) despite objections from those living close to the site.
Residents protesting at Kellingley Colliery. Plans have been submitted for the construction of a 26MW incinerator which will burn up to 280,000 tons of waste.Front Sue Ackroyd.Residents protesting at Kellingley Colliery. Plans have been submitted for the construction of a 26MW incinerator which will burn up to 280,000 tons of waste.Front Sue Ackroyd.
Residents protesting at Kellingley Colliery. Plans have been submitted for the construction of a 26MW incinerator which will burn up to 280,000 tons of waste.Front Sue Ackroyd.

Planning officers have recommended that North Yorkshire County Council’s planning and regulatory functions committee approve plans for the facility, which would burn up to 280,000 tonnes of waste a year.

But campaigners claim the Peel Environment plant - which will produce enough electricity to power 63,000 homes - will increase pollution and traffic in Knottingley, Byram and Eggborough.

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Coun John McCartney, who represents the Osgoldcross ward on North Yorkshire County Council, said: “The big issue is the traffic. There are going to be 130 wagons moving in and out of that site each day.

“All the traffic will have to turn right from the pit site and exit through Eggborough. One of the conditions of the planning permission is that traffic doesn’t go through Knottingley, which we respect, but it’s going to have a serious effect on the village.”

Coun McCartney also claimed it was not clear where waste burnt at the site would be coming from.

He added: “The waste plant will be built and then they will see where they can get the waste from to burn.

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“We fear that waste could be imported and that it won’t just be local waste burnt at the site.”

Richard Barker, Peel Environment’s development manager, said: “The UK’s energy security has never been more in the spotlight

“Our facility will generate enough electricity to power 63,000 homes, helping to broaden the energy mix and contribute to a secure supply for years to come.”