MP's campaign over chemical plans

MP Paul Clark wants to make residents aware of the plans

The MP for Gillingham has launched a campaign to inform constituents about plans to keep a fertiliser at a nearby docks which can also be used for bombs.

Arcelor Mittal Kent Wire wants permission to store 2,500 tonnes of ammonium nitrate at Chatham docks.

Paul Clark has delivered over 1,000 petition forms to residents to make them aware of the proposals and also set up an online information centre.

Medway Council said it would seek expert advice on the application.

The company has not made any comments about the plans.

'Thick and fast'

Residents had expressed their concerns about the proposals lodged with the authority as an official hazardous consent application registered in April.

The site where the firm wants to keep the chemical, which is used as a farm fertiliser, is near homes, a shopping centre and the police headquarters.

Mr Clark, whose constiuency also covers Rainham, said the council was not doing enough to tell residents about the applicaton.

"Signatures have been coming in thick and fast and I'm glad that people are getting the chance to have their say," he added.

A spokesperson for Medway Council said it was a technical application subject to legislation specifically dealing with hazardous substances and expert advice would be sought before a decision was made.

Several residents have already lodged objections with the council about the plans.

Arcelor Mittal Kent Wire is part of Mittal Steel, the world's largest steel producer.