Fawley refinery warns of possible blue flares noise

The flares, which can been seen along Southampton Water, are set to burn blue

People living near an oil refinery have been warned to expect noise and see blue flares burning while it powers up a new hydrogen plant.

Fawley Refinery, near Southampton, said it expected to start up the new low sulphur diesel production unit over the coming days.

ExxonMobil said: "The use of our flares is completely safe, but you may also hear some additional noise, which we are working hard to minimise."

The bright flares, normally orange when in use at the refinery, can be seen along Southampton Water including from the Isle of Wight.

Opened in 1951, the complex covers 3,250 acres - the size of about 1,425 football pitches

The firm said: "We have safely produced hydrogen at Fawley for over 50 years, but this increased capacity creates more options for the future, including the potential for lower emission fuels.

"We apologise in advance for any disturbance and thank you for your understanding."

Running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the ExxonMobil Fawley complex produces fuels and chemical products.

About 2,500 staff and contractors work on the 3,250-acre site which first opened in 1951.