If we don't get the planning permission the plant will probably close in 2005, if it goes ahead it can run for another 25 years

Tony Allan, Castle Cement

An inquiry was ordered by the Welsh Assembly after a number of environmental issues were raised and a final decision is expected shortly.

However, officials at the plant have said unless the plans are approved, prospects for the 220 employees at the site are bleak.

Castle Cement General Manager Tony Allan said: "We're owned by a German group who want to spend money in Wales but they can't.

"If we don't get the planning permission the plant will probably close in 2005, if it goes ahead it can run for another 25 years."

The application for the development was first put forward in 1999 and initially approved by Flintshire County Council in February 2000.

But within weeks, the plans were called in by the assembly following opposition on environmental grounds and a public inquiry was launched.

Tony Allan is worried the plant will close

Castle Cement has insisted the new kiln would make the plant more efficient and clean up emissions.

The firm's view was supported by a study published by North Wales Health Authority in 1999.

The report concluded that: "Individuals living in the area of the works are very unlikely to suffer any harmful effects from authorised emissions of any pollutant including dioxins from the proposed kiln."

However, members of a local action group the Campaign Against the New Kiln (Cank) remain unconvinced.

They have said that they are concerned about possible unauthorised emissions at the Padeswood plant.

Hazardous waste

Campaigners have also raised concerns over the company's plans to use a solvent-based liquid fuel, Cemfuel, as an alternative to coal in the new 100-metre high pre-heater tower.

The Environment Agency has classified Cemfuel as "hazardous waste" and activists claim its use in the kiln would raise transportation issues.

Cank chairman Arnold Woolley said: "Hazardous waste, municipal solid waste and tyres will be transported for long distances."

He added: "Various directives on waste disposal all require or advise that 'waste' should be disposed of locally."

Reduced emissions

But Castle Cement argue that the burning of used tyres, paper and plastic and Cemfuel will reduce overall emissions of carbon dioxide and oxides of nitrogen.

Mr Allan said: "At the moment we use 95,000 tonnes of fossil fuel, coal, every year.

"Changing to alternative fuel would reduce emissions, reduce costs and allow us to compete on the world stage."

The assembly's planning and development committee are currently considering the results of the public inquiry and an inspector's report.

They are expected to announce their final decision on February.