The controversial proposals would see the building of a third furnace which would burn an extra 100,000 tonnes of rubbish a year on the Eastcroft site.

Local residents and environmentalists have expressed fears about pollution.

But the Waste Recycling Group, the firm running the incinerators, said it will work within safety guidelines and bigger capacity will be beneficial.

The Environment Agency said it would only grant permission for the development if it was satisfied that it would not impact on the environment or human health.