Kicking up a stink over biogas plant

Constituents have contacted both East Renfrewshire MP, Paul Masterton and Eastwood MSP Jackson Carlaw over changes to the development.

Mr Masterton andMr Carlaw in turn both wrote to East Renfrewshire Council regarding the controversial biogas plant, which will see animal waste being utilised for fuel at the facility.

This follows a community council meeting last month where Mr Carlaw and a representative of Mr Masterton’s office heard the concerns of local residents.

When the planning application was previously granted, East Renfrewshire Council included a so-called ‘Condition 10’ which centred around the banning of animal waste in a move to alleviate public concerns.

The developer has now sought to have this condition removed in their current planning application.

East Renfrewshire Council has since contacted both Mr Carlaw and Mr Masterton concerning the facility.

However, they said that the council’s letter has only heightened the fears of residents rather than allay them, as the council has confirmed that cattle slurry will be used on site and no consultation will take place over this.

Mr Masterton said: “Removal of Condition 10 represents a shameful withdrawal by East Renfrewshire Council from previous assurances given to residents.

“The transfer of slurry to the site is a real worry for those living near to the plant. The lack of consultation on the matter is of further concern.

“I urge all at East Renfrewshire Council to listen to the genuine concerns of residents and stop any use of animal waste at the facility.”

Mr Carlaw added: “Amending or removing Condition 10 is disadvantageous to local people who at least felt protected by this control on developers.

“The Council must listen to residents and put a stop to any plans of animal waste being used at the biogas plant.”