Cement plant consults residents over waste fuel

A TOTAL of 3,000 households are being invited to air their views on plans to use an additional waste-derived fuel at a cement plant.

Lafarge Cement UK wants to introduce the new fuel to help cut escalating energy costs after a downturn in demand for construction products.

An application is to be submitted to the Environment Agency following public consultation over its Cauldon works.

Manager Nicolas Maes said the Construction Products Association suggests the UK will see the largest fall in construction output on record this year. He added: "The current economic climate shows how important it is for companies to remain competitive. With this in mind, we are working hard to maintain a good cost position and protect employment. Our approach so far, to keep our costs in check through fuel cost savings, is proving effective. However, we need to continue to improve and develop new opportunities for protecting Cauldon Works' future."

The firm already uses scrap tyre chips and processed sewage pellets as fuel. Mr Maes added: "We are now undertaking a period of consultation with local people and will provide opportunities for them to ask any questions and feed in their views."

Information events will be held on Friday, July 17 from 3pm to 7pm and on Saturday, July 18 from 10am to 1pm at Waterhouses Community Bungalow, in Waterfall Lane, Waterhouses.