Although planners put forward a recommendation for approval, Cornwall Council initially turned down plans for the 240,000 tonne scheme. This was overturned on appeal by the Secretary of State, whose report recognised that the design was of a high quality.

A series of curved roofs have been incorporated into the scheme to reflect the rolling forms of the countryside around St Dennis, near St Austell.

Separating the stack from the rest of the buildings also provides an uncluttered appearance, contrasting with the utilitarian appearance of the adjoining Parkandillick dryer complex.

SITA’s head of construction, David Buckle, said: “David’s understanding of energy-from-waste process engineerin,g and the approach used to create a plant design in harmony with its environment, was invaluable in helping us gain approval for this facility.

The incinerator will be capable of handling all of Cornwall’s domestic waste. Heat generated will be used to power local homes and the nearby China clay driers, helping to reduce the use of natural gas.

In 2008 Butterworth’s firm, Architecture and Planning Solutions, merged with environmental firm SLR Consulting.

Maxine Perella

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