Issue - meetings

That the update be noted.

The Waste Services Manager reported that Natural Resources Wales had considered the application made by Wheelabrator Technologies for an environmental permit to operate the facility.  Following public consultation in September 2015, a draft permit had been given with a full permit due to be granted at the end of the month.

The partnership between the five Authorities was now in the latter stages of finalising contractual arrangements with Wheelabrator.  The Welsh Government (WG) had approved the release of subsidy funding for the facility which was scheduled to be operational early in 2019.  A ‘Meet the Buyer’ event which had just been held as part of Flintshire Business Week enabled local businesses to discuss potential opportunities for involvement, and had generated a high level of interest registered so far.

Councillor Nancy Matthews welcomed the progress made on the project and hoped that local businesses would take advantage of the opportunities.  This view was also shared by Councillor Paul Shotton who referred to the involvement of two local companies on the project.

Councillor Ian Dunbar spoke positively about the interest from local businesses and engagement with local residents, but felt that concerns around transport and noise levels should be resolved before finalising the contract.  The Waste Services Manager said that the standard practice of liaison groups was useful in discussing any concerns raised by individuals.

Concerns were also expressed by Councillor Ron Davies on the impact of transport on the A494/A55, particularly along the Aston Hill, which he hoped would be considered as part of the current consultation exercise by WG.

The Waste Strategy Manager agreed to feedback the Committee’s comments to the Programme Manager.

RESOLVED:

That the update be noted.