Incinerator could harm dolphins, councillor says

An artist's impression of the proposed incinerator at Portland Port

An energy waste plant could affect marine life for miles around, a councillor has said.

The £150m energy recovery facility (ERF) in Portland was refused by Dorset Council, which has led to an appeal by developers Portland Powerfuel.

At a public inquiry into the decision, Dorset councillor Rob Hughes said there was a risk that the transfer of microscopic toxins could enter the food chain, harming dolphins and shellfish.

But Portland Powerfuel has denied there would be any ill effects from the incinerator.

Protesters have called plans for the 80-metre incinerator stack an "eyesore"

Mr Hughes, a diver, said particulates may not be captured by the plant’s filters, falling onto the land and sea in the surrounding area.

“Workers within the port have expressed to me health concerns me about the fly ash that will be produced by the incinerator and the carcinogens within it," he said.

“The marine life that surrounds the Dorset coast from Studland to Portland Bill and including Chesil Beach and Lyme Bay is nationally important to the health of our oceans."

Portland Powerfuel previously made assurances that the plant would comply with all health, safety and pollution controls.

The hearing is now entering its final stages, with the inquiry expected to close on Thursday afternoon.

Once finished the Inspector’s report will go to the Secretary of State who will make the decision.