Isle of Wight asphalt plant plans criticised by residents

The proposed plant would produce asphalt to maintain the island's road network

Plans to build a £2.3m asphalt factory to supply Isle of Wight roads have been criticised by residents.

Eurovia Roadstone has submitted plans for the plant and recycling facility at a disused landfill site on the River Medina at Cowes.

Local residents and town and parish councils have voiced concerns over potential noise and smells.

The company said the plant would be within noise limits and measures would be in place to reduce dust and odour.

The Isle of Wight Council is currently offering a 25-year contract to maintain the island's roads through the Public Finance Initiative (PFI).

The successful preferred bidder is due to be announced on 30 May.

If selected, Eurovia Roadstone proposes developing the plant which it says would produce 150,000 tonnes of material a year, creating 14 jobs.

The proposed location for the plant is about 360m (1,200ft) from a new housing development and East Cowes Marina.

A Facebook campaign has been set up by opponents to the scheme.

Resident Julia Hill said: "It's extremely concerning in terms of noise and smell.

"The visual impact from the new houses is quite significant."

She also said local people only had three weeks to establish details of the plans.

Public meetings on the planning application are being held in East and West Cowes, Northwood and Newport before public consultation closes on May 18.