A proposed plan to construct a plant in Swansea to recycle thousands of tonnes of tyres has raised concerns over potential pollution in the area. Tyregen UK Ltd aims to process approximately 7,650 tonnes of waste tyres annually using a pyrolysis method that involves heating tyres at high temperatures to separate oil and carbon black components used in tyre manufacturing. The company intends to reuse some of the gas produced in the process, with the rest treated before release through a chimney stack at the Westfield Industrial Estate in Waunarlwydd.
Swansea Council’s pollution control department is currently reviewing Tyregen UK Ltd’s permit application, inviting public comments until October 2. While planning permission is already granted for processing waste tyres and plastics at the site, local councillors and residents have expressed worries about potential pollution, especially in the event of accidents or fires at the plant. Residents from areas like Waunarlwydd, Gowerton, and Cockett have voiced objections due to pollution concerns.
Tyregen UK Ltd spokesperson clarified that the proposed plant, apart from the chimney stack, would be enclosed within a larger building and focused on recycling rather than burning tyres. The company highlighted the importance of recycling in the tyre industry and the potential job creation if the project proceeds. The council has released various documents related to the application, outlining the plant’s operations and safety measures.
According to the company’s summary, the plant aims to produce fuel oil and carbon black from pre-treated tyres through pyrolysis, with minimal pollution impact expected. Safety measures include shutdown protocols in case of issues, on-site water tanks for fire emergencies, and a distance of 230m from the nearest property. However, residents like Cllr Lewis and local resident Val Higgon remain concerned about additional pollutants in the area, particularly given existing traffic congestion and residential developments.
The council will make a decision on the proposal within three months after the consultation period ends. Cllr Lewis underscored the plant’s proximity to sensitive locations like a nursing home, school, and housing for the elderly, expressing fears about potential hazards during emergencies. Despite assurances from Tyregen UK Ltd about recycling practices and safety measures, local residents continue to raise environmental and health concerns regarding the proposed tyre recycling plant in Swansea.