Council backs incinerator plans

The developers have dismissed fears about pollution

Controversial plans for an incinerator on the site of a former Nottinghamshire colliery have moved a step closer.

The county council's planning committee has supported the plans from environmental services firm Veolia by a vote of 10-1.

The incinerator at the former Rufford colliery near Rainworth would deal with 180,000 tonnes of waste a year.

Residents are concerned about pollution and have said they do not want the area to become a dumping ground.

'Proven technology'

The plans still have to be approved by the Government Office for the East Midlands before the project can move ahead. It is estimated the plant would take three years to build.

Newark and Sherwood District Council has already voted against the proposal and Sherwood MP Paddy Tipping has written to government asking for a public enquiry on the issue.

Mr Tipping has said it was not acceptable that the county council was both proposing and considering the application.

The plans have been under discussion for more than two years.

Veolia said the facility was needed to reduce the pressure on landfill and would provide enough power for 15,000 homes.

It has also dismissed fears over pollution, saying the plans are based on proven technology.

Local campaign group People Against Incineration staged a protest outside the meeting at the county council's offices.