Sant'Antnin recycling plant

With reference to James McTear's letter (May 18), WasteServ would like to point out that contrary to what is claimed, the decision to upgrade the Sant'Antnin plant followed a specific and thorough exercise that started with the drafting of the strategy in 2001. It is certainly not being kept in use "... simply because it has a permit to operate". A series of studies led to this decision.

WasteServ would like to reiterate that an alternative site assessment report was conducted and the sites identified were considered unsuitable for a number of valid reasons. Of the potential sites indicated it was found that some had inadequate access while a major factor at some would have been their impact on the habitats. Another site had no existing road access and yet another consisted solely of open countryside.

The alternative site assessment report was submitted to the Malta Environment and Planning Authority in July 2004. It was made public and circulated to government departments and local councils for consultation and was subsequently approved.

In respect of the Sant'Antnin plant, WasteServ also conducted an environment impact assessment, which is a very detailed study taking into consideration all aspects of the project. In fact, all concerns raised during consultation were addressed for inclusion in the detailed design and tendering process for this facility. In this way the technology chosen will be the best suited for this proposed upgrade.

WasteServ fully understands the situation in the locality and the proposed €16.7 million for the upgrading of the Sant'Antnin waste treatment plant are being invested to radically improve the present situation.