A DETAILED cross-examination of plans for a waste incinerator on the northern edge of Carlisle has yielded no "objection in principle".

Carlisle City Council's task group, formed in response to the launch of an Environment Agency consultation as it considered the grant of a permit for the operation of a waste incinerator to the north of Carlisle, has now submitted its findings.

The group, which included deputy leader and Belah and Kingmoor ward councillor Gareth Ellis and representatives from residents' associations and parish councils across north Carlisle, was guided by consultancy Ricardo.

Mr Ellis explained that the firm, recognised as leading experts in this exact field, concluded they had a number of concerns over the plans for the site. However, they did not "object in principle" to the site itself going ahead.

But the consultants and task group did draw up a list of 21 recommendations on how the plans for the incinerator can be improved to minimise any potential impact on air quality.

"This is possibly the most thorough and detailed consultation response the city council has ever given," Mr Ellis said.

He hoped the drafting in of experts to review the plans would leave residents confident that the plans had been scrutinised to the greatest possible degree.

"Ricardo's professional opinion is that when this sort energy generation by incinerating waste is done correctly, it's not a risk to human health," he said.

However, a number of tweaks to the plans have been suggested, including extending the height of the chimney stack from 70m to between 75m and 80m, to further disperse waste gases.

It has also been suggested that a more comprehensive odour management plan be put in place - more than the original "sniff test" proposed by the developers, Mr Ellis explained.