Campaigners who had fought the proposal said the decision underlined the community's view that Invergordon was no longer open to "dirty business" and instead wanted to promote itself as a clean, green cruise-liner destination.

After a marathon seven-hour debate on Tuesday, the council's Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross planning committee rejected the application by Combined Power and Heat (Highlands) Ltd.

The application had been recommend for approval but there was no support among councillors for the proposal which would have seen 100,000 tonnes of rubbish a year burnt at the proposed plant on the former aluminium smelter site.

The decision was met with relief and delight by the 200 people, including members of the protest group Invergordon Incinerator – No to Waste, who had packed into Invergordon Social Club to air their views and listen to the debate.

But this week the company behind the plan said it was considering whether to appeal the decision.

At the meeting, Cromarty Firth councillor Maxine Smith moved a motion to refuse the application, seconded by Cllr Martin Rattray, on grounds including road safety issues at the Tomich junction, unsuitable location near to houses and schools, and that it could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt that the plant would not impact adversely on health.

Wick councillor Graeme Smith moved an amendment, also for refusal, but solely on the grounds of the unsuitability of the Tomich junction. However, Maxine Smith's motion won on an 8-4 vote.

Afterwards, community council chairwoman Catherine Richmond said: "This decision should send out a clear message that the people of Invergordon don't want this type of facility.

"We have had enough of dirty business and industry in the town and we have been left legacies before. This is a new era for Invergordon and we're delighted.

"We were also delighted that so many people turned out to the meeting because that really showed the true feeling in the town."

Glenn Jones, director of Combined Power and Heat, said: "We are very disappointed that the committee has turned down our application.

"The technology has been proven over many years and is used safely across Europe. Waste to energy plants are recognised by the Scottish Government as an important part of the country's waste management strategy. We will now be considering our next move including deciding whether or not to appeal."

Highlands and Islands MSP Rob Gibson also welcomed the decision and said: "This decision should make Highland Council pause for thought and develop a real waste strategy."

Last week, councillors refused an application by the Highland Council itself to extend the waste transfer station in Invergordon. Local people had also lodged strong objections against that plan.

editor@north-star-news.co.uk

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