Air quality concerns raised over biomass plant

The firm behind a proposed biomass plant in Southampton has amended its plans, after residents raised concerns over declining air quality.

Helius Energy will launch a second consultation into the wood-fired site in the Western Docks area of the city, BBC News reports.

Protests had been staged by people in the region, who harboured fears that the plant would cause too much pollution, while also adding to noise and traffic problems.

A petition containing more than 3,000 signatures was handed to the firm and the city council, as well as 150 objection letters.

Bosses at Helius have now pledged to engage in air monitoring, as well as staging further reviews into the impact of noise and traffic created by the station.

"In response to the public feedback received, Helius has commenced a review of the siting, form and external appearance of the scheme," a statement reportedly said.

Earlier this month, the company announced it had secured £60.5 million of funding to set up a biomass project in Scotland.

Posted by Lauren Steadman