STEELMAKING could end at Sheerness unless Thamesteel comes up with viable plans to counter pollution within the next 10 weeks.

The Environment Agency has spelt out the stark warning it has given to mill managers.

A letter obtained by The Sheerness Times Guardian newspaper says: "Thamesteel have until November 1, 2004, to submit improvement plans that will address the emission problems identified and ensure that the site will be adopting the best available techniques in the near future.

"The agency has warned Thamesteel that if they do not provide the required level of information by this date, then the agency is minded to refuse their application" (for a pollution prevention and a control permit needed by all steelworks under new European Union laws).

"Should the agency decide not to grant the permit then Thamesteel will no longer be able to carry out steel making operations on site."

The company was permitted to re-start mill operations last year, provided it applied for a permit.

The Agency said it has taken longer than normal to coinsider for two reasons: Thamesteel did not provide sufficient information and the local community complained about potential health effects of emissions.

Thamesteel has been told the Agency is aware of the odours emitted by the steelworks and the problems these cause to many residents of Sheerness.

Roof vents are now kept shut during the first phase of furnace operation so as to cut fugitive emissions and gases that used to escape now pass through a filter that removes dust and small particles.

The Agency said said that as a short-term measure Thamesteel were improving their operating practices and conducting trials to reduce emissions.

Warren Hewitt, general manager at Thamesteel, said: "The letter gives the whole picture."