by Hayley Robinson

A public consultation has begun on plans to issue a draft environmental permit for an energy waste plant at Kemsley mill.

Kent County Council approved plans for a sustainable energy plant at the site, in Ridham Avenue, back in April.

The plant now needs a permit from the Environment Agency (EA) which would, if granted, ensure the installation operates without causing harm to the environment and human health.

The planned facility operated by E.On Energy from Waste UK Ltd, will incinerate up to 550,000 tonnes per year of non-hazardous waste, including municipal waste and treated commercial and industrial waste. Electricity will be generated for export to the national grid and steam will be supplied to Kemsley Paper Mill.

Two drop-in sessions for residents will be held at Kemsley Village Hall, Ridham Avenue, between 2pm and 8pm on Thursday, July 7 and July 14.

EA environment manager Alan Cansdale said: "An environmental permit sets out stringent conditions that a plant must adhere to. We will not issue an environmental permit for any industrial site if we consider it will cause significant pollution to the environment or harm human health.

"Giving people the chance to come and speak to us and find out more information is a vital part of our consultation process "

View or comment on the draft permit online at www.environment-agency.gov.uk