WASTE from homes and businesses could be stored in Pembroke Dock if an application by the Milford Haven Port Authority is accepted.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) received an application from the port authority for an environmental permit to operate waste storage and transfer station at Pembroke Dock.

The company wants to allow businesses using the port to temporarily store waste on site before it is transferred elsewhere.

A previous waste storage facility in Pembroke Dock had its waste permit partially suspended in May 2017 after residents complained of bad smells and a fly problem.

The authority proposes to store waste which will be used to produce energy, usually baled waste and loose processed wood waste.

This would contain non-hazardous waste, which can be used as fuel to produce electricity in offsite energy-from-waste facilities.

All waste sites must have a permit before they can operate. To be granted a permit the operators must show that they have the right infrastructure, management techniques and equipment to deal with the waste in the proposed area.

NRW will now begin a six-week consultation with local people, businesses and other experts including Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Public Health Wales, Pembrokeshire Council and Hywel Dda University Health Board.

This is an opportunity to raise any concerns or provide NRW with any important information it needs to be aware of as it assesses the company’s application.

A public drop-in session will also take place in Pembroke Dock week starting Monday, May 6.

Andrea Winterton, Operations Manager from NRW said: “The Milford Haven Waterway, as well as being a key hub for the energy industry, is a rich habitat for wildlife, and part of the Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation.

“We will only grant a permit if we are confident that the company has the right plans and measures in place to run the site without causing harm to local people or the environment.

“Our experts will now begin their assessment, but local knowledge is incredibly valuable to us. All comments we receive as part of our consultation will be considered when it comes to making our decision.”

The consultation will close on May 21, 2019.

Electronic copies of the application are available on the NRW website.

A hard copy is also available by request to the email or by post.

All comments need to be received in writing by May 21, 2019, to permittingconsultations@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk or:

Permitting Team Leader (Waste), Natural Resources Wales, Permitting Service (Cardiff), Cambria House, 29 Newport Road, Cardiff, CF24 0TP