Plans for a multimillion pound incinerator for the north-east will have to another hurdle to clear – even if they are approved by local authorities.
Plans for a £120million energy from waste facility were launched by Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray last October, and are due to come up for approval in the coming weeks.
But last night, it emerged a permit would be needed before it can operate – and that to get it, strict environmental tests will need to be passed.
As yet, the authorities have not yet applied to Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) for the permit.
An agency spokeswoman said: “The proposed plant would be a regulated activity under the Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations (Scotland) 2012 and as such the operator will be required to apply to Sepa for a permit to operate.
“To date we have not received an application for such a permit.”
If planning permission is granted and an application for a permit is made, Sepa would carry out extensive tests into the environmental impact of the plant.
NHS Grampian would also be brought in to access the health risks.
The spokeswoman added: “If an application is submitted in the future the applicant would have to provide us with supporting information to demonstrate the plant can be operated in such a way that all preventative measures are taken against pollution, in particular through the application of best available techniques, and that no significant pollution is caused.
“Before deciding whether to grant the application or not we would consult with public and statutory bodies, and would consider the environmental impact of the activity.
“In particular we would look at the potential emissions, including those to air, odour and, where necessary, impose conditions in the permit to control this.
Four community councils in the south of the city have led objections to the plant including Torry, Kincorth, Nigg and Cove.
David Fryer, secretary of Torry Community Council said: “The four community councils have approached Sepa and are looking to secure a meeting with them about the requirements the plant would have to meet.”
A spokesman for Aberdeen City Council said: “We do need a permit from Sepa but as the site will not become operational until 2021 we will get planning permission first then go through a procurement exercise and the contractor will then approach Sepa.”