Energy from Waste plant 'operating as normal' after fire in the waste pit caused shutdown

Facility was closed yesterday to incoming deliveries

The Island's Energy from Waste plant has issued a reminder to Island residents to not put electrical items in with their waste, and to instead take it to their local amenity site.

It's after the facility was closed yesterday (14 July) to incoming deliveries due to a fire in the waste pit. 

Douglas City Council issued a warning of delays to households whose refuse was due for collection today, as a result of the closure.

In a statement issued to Manx Radio, plant Manager Jon Garrad said: "The SUEZ Isle of Man energy-from-waste facility was closed yesterday to incoming deliveries due to a fire in the waste pit.

"Fires in waste facilities are frequently caused by the incorrect disposal of items containing batteries, which carry a charge even when they no longer work, and set fire when compacted with other waste. 

"This causes a safety risk to employees and causes knock on impacts to the operation, with the facility being unable to accept waste.

"We would like to take this opportunity to remind people not to put electrical items in with their waste, and to instead take it to their local civic amenity site. We apologise for any inconvenience."

The plant operator, SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, has confirmed it is operating as normal again today.