Wednesday, April 13, 2011

UK: Hanson Cement, Padeswood, could face action over dust



The Environment Agency is considering whether to take further action against a Flintshire cement plant after residents reported being affected by dust.

An agency spokesperson said it had identified the cause at the Padeswood factory and Hanson Cement had taken action to rectify the problem.

It said it was now investigating whether the company had breached its environmental permits.

Hanson has been asked to comment.

The Environment Agency said it received complaints last month.

A spokesperson added: "We have received complaints of dust in Padeswood and have investigated and identified what has caused it.

"Action has been taken by Hanson Cement to rectify the problem.

"Our officers are now collecting evidence to see if there have been any breaches of the conditions in their environmental permit. We will then consider what further action needs to be taken.

"Environmental permits are there to protect local people and the environment. Any breaches are a serious matter which will not be tolerated."

In 2009, the Environment Agency investigated after a dust cloud leaked from the plant and more than 30 members of the public complained.

The company arranged for villagers affected by the dust cloud to have their cars cleaned.

In 2007, the cement works' previous owners, Castle Cement, paid for professional car valets to clean the vehicles of nearby residents caught in two separate outpourings of dust from its chimney.

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