Powerfuel Portland can now take in 67 additional waste types, including agricultural and food-processing waste, textiles, plastics, packaging, wood and construction rubbish.
This follows concern from locals that the plant may be at risk of emitting increased odour, noise and air pollution. The Environment Agency (EA) say they are satisfied that effective control measures will be in place to prevent.
An EA spokesperson said: “Protecting the environment and enabling waste infrastructure go hand-in-hand.
“We are satisfied that the permit for Portland Powerfuel will ensure a high level of protection for the environment.”
The decision comes as England continues to rely heavily on incineration to manage waste. According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, 18.9 million tonnes of residual waste were incinerated in England in 2024, up 17% from 16.1 million tonnes in 2019.
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