Biomass incinerator gets permission to operate despite protests

A controversial biomass incinerator has been given permission to begin operations.

The incinerator on Woodham Road in Barry Dock received planning permission in 2015 and has now been given a licence.

Campaign groups and local residents have argued against the incinerator, claiming it could be dangerous to people’s health.

But Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has now granted Biomass UK No 2 Ltd a permit to start operating.

It said the licence was granted following consultation with local residents, Public Health Wales and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Friends of the Earth Barry and Vale described the consultation as “inadequate”.

Spokesman Max Wallis said: “We are just disgusted. It was a quite inadequate consultation and information provided.

“There are vital issues outstanding, in particular the impact of major floods from the sea on this site and the safe operation of an incineration in such a vulnerable position.

“I would like to add that in our view this decision is very vulnerable to legal challenge.”

Vale of Glamorgan MP Alun Cairns said: “I’m not only disappointed, but also angry, that NRW have taken the decision to grant the permit. The Welsh Government and local Assembly Members must be held to account for this dreadful decision.”