Issue - meetings

As detailed in the recommendations.

            Councillor Thomas introduced the Parc Adfer Update report and explained that the North Wales Residual Waste Joint Committee had recently met to discuss changes to the requirements of environmental permits for Energy and Waste facilities in relation to Particulate Matter (PM) and made a recommendation on the reporting of PM2.5, in addition to the permit requirements.

            As a result of concerns raised during the procurement process in relation to emissions to air from Parc Adfer, specifically of PM2.5 particulates, a contractual option was included in the contract with Wheelabrator Technologies Inc (WTI) to carry out monitoring and reporting of PM2.5 particulates over and above the normal monitoring regime that WTI would have to do under their permit as issued by Natural Resources Wales which was welcomed by Councillor Jones.  In response to a question from Councillor Banks, the Chief Executive said that reporting technology would allow instant updates to be given on emission levels.

            The Chief Executive explained that the site employed around 400 people which was in line with expectations as the completion of the build and the start of the commissioning became closer.  Construction of the Parc Adfer facility began in January 2017, and commissioning of the facility and acceptance of the Partnership’s residual waste was scheduled to begin in June 2019, reaching full operational capacity by late 2019. It was estimated that the plant would generate enough renewable energy to power more than 30,000 homes.  In addition, a total of 34 new jobs were set to be created ranging from plant management to operational, technical and administrative roles.

            Work had also been undertaken with all parties involved to ensure that lorries did not disturb residents by travelling on minor roads – assurances had been given that routing for lorries would be set via principle A roads.

            The construction of Parc Adfer had been well managed – the British Safety Council had recently inspected the site and awarded the project a 5 star rating. Members would be invited to the site to meet the operational team.  There would also be an educational facility on the site which school children would be invited to attend as part of organised school visits.

            RESOLVED:

(a)       That the report be noted; and

(b)       That Members be assured of progress and readiness for the commencement of Commissioning of Parc Adfer.