Councillors will decide on Thursday whether to back plans for the creation of a controversial £120million incinerator in Aberdeen.
Local authority members were due to determine yesterday whether to progress with the scheme at a special meeting of their planning, development and management committee.
But, soon after 10am, councillors instead voted to defer the decision to Thursday’s full council meeting, arguing that the project – if approved – would have implications for the whole city.
The motion to defer came from SNP group leader, Stephen Flynn, who said there were two key reasons for not rushing to judgement.
He added: “Firstly, this proposal would have a wide-ranging impact on people across the city because it is hugely significant, so it is only fitting that all councillors take part in the process.
“Secondly, the papers were only released late last week so, by having an extra couple of days, it will give everyone the chance to fully read them.”
Councillor Ramsay Milne, the convener of the planning committee responded: “There was a procedural motion and that was successful.
“I would have preferred if the committee had considered the matter [on Monday], but I can’t say I’m surprised.”
Four community councils, close to the location of the proposed development in Tullos – Torry, Kincorth, Nigg and Cove – have objected to the plans over health fears and other issues.
If approved, developers say the new plant could turn household rubbish into energy for 350 homes in Torry, and also provide heating and hot water for Tullos Primary School.
David Fryer, the secretary of Torry Community Council, said: “This incinerator is an issue for the north-east as a whole, so it really should be brought before the full council.
“Incinerators like these can be dangerous, and there is evidence for a wide variety of health problems that can arise from breathing in any of the chemicals that can be released as a result of the combustion.
“We hope common sense prevails and the council members agree this should not be supported, and on Wednesday night [at 7pm], we will be holding a public meeting about this issue at Queen’s Cross Church, where everyone is welcome to come along and voice their opinions.”