A controversial planning application to build an anaerobic digestion plant at Fletcher Bank Quarry in Ramsbottom has been resubmitted.

The original plans submitted by Peel Environmental were temporarily withdrawn in November, days before they were scheduled to go before Bury Council’s planning committee.

Council officers had sought clarification over certain information within the details of the application. Peel say the new application includes “additional technical information” on the air quality impact assessment, and more information about the odour control system at the plant.

Peel wants to build an anaerobic digestion centre which will create electricity by using food by-products such as feedstock. If permission was granted, renewable energy firm Tamar Energy would build and run the facility.

However the proposals have sparked opposition, and residents have formed the Ramsbottom Against Waste Site (RAWS) group to protest against the plans.

Peel was previously granted permission to increase the height of inert infilling in the northern part of the quarry, involving 950,000 cubic metres of waste being imported to the site at a rate of 100,000 cubic metres a year. Kieran Tames, development surveyor at Peel, said: “We’ve provided the additional information in response to concerns raised on the previous application to ensure the council can make a fully informed decision on the proposal.

“This is not uncommon for planning applications that require a high level of technical information.

“We’ve worked hard to ensure that the local community feels well-informed through openly communicating the facts on the proposal, and as part of this ongoing commitment, a community newsletter will shortly be sent to local residents explaining why the planning application was re-submitted and answering some frequently asked questions.”

Cllr Ian Bevan, who has campaigned against the plans with RAWS, said he was disappointed that the plans had been resubmitted.

He said: “I am also disappointed they have not consulted with residents, which they said they would do.

“We have got to look at the new planning application in some detail and I will be looking at it with the RAWS group next week.

“At this stage, if it is the same planning application as last time, we will be fighting it.”

An event for residents to get further information about the new planning application will take place at The Grant Arms, in Market Place, on Tuesday, January 28 from 4.30pm-7.30pm.

Anyone wishing to attend is asked to contact Tamar Energy to arrange a time slot on 0800 840 1229.