THE consultation period for the proposed so-called ‘incinerator’ at Barry Docks has been extended, after an intervention by Vale of Glamorgan AM Jane Hutt.
Following a meeting with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) last week, Ms Hutt was able to secure an extension to the current consultation, regarding an environmental permit for the Biomass No 2 development. The deadline has now been extended to Sunday, September 10.
Ms Hutt said: “After calling for a public consultation extension at our meeting last week, I was pleased to receive the welcome news on Friday afternoon that the time period for consultation responses on the latest application has been extended.
“This makes absolute sense, with NRW stating in their response to my request for an extension that they ‘fully recognise and appreciate the concerns of the local community and the need to ensure that they are afforded the opportunity to contribute to the decision-making process.'”
Ms Hutt shared the news at a rally hosted by the Docks Incinerator Action Group (DIAG) in King’s Square, Barry, on Saturday, thanking campaigners for their imagination and commitment.
Proposals for the development have been met with fierce opposition by many Barry residents, who are concerned about the affects of pollution, amongst other issues, on the local area.
Ms Hutt continued: “My message is that we use ‘our heads as well as our hearts’ in giving evidence, (as well as) experience and local knowledge in our response to NRW, to back up objections to Biomass No. 2.
“I also welcome the role played by Barry Town Council – backed by all political parties – in commissioning a further report from Capita, to secure independent and specialist evidence on behalf of the people of Barry.
“Thank you once again to DIAG and their liaison group who will be meeting with myself and NRW in September to discuss the evidence we have gained and the analysis they have undertaken.”
Article originally appeared on Barry and District News
