In a report the government has confirmed the ban on the plant in Lancaster that was originally imposed by planning inspectors.

Environment secretary Margaret Beckett was asked to rule on the ban against Fats and Proteins UK in January this year and at the time said she was "minded" to uphold it.

Now the report from Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has further confirmed her decision on the plant at Nightingale Hall Farm.

'Long process'

Under the ban, the company must prove it has taken all steps to stop the smells spreading from the site, or it will be in breach of the ruling.

Ian Barker, leader of Lancaster City Council, said the report marked the end of a "long, long process" and was "delighted" with the result.

After Mrs Beckett made her original decision earlier this year, campaigners against the plant described the ruling as a "tremendous victory".

Residents had complained about the smells coming from the plant for several years before a public inquiry was held on the issue.