Fury over plans for massive incinerator in the centre of Northampton

An artist's impression of the gasification plant. Credit: Rolton Kilbride.

Campaigners fighting plans for a "monstrous" incinerator in the centre of Northampton have vowed to fight on - despite signs the development is moving forward.

There had been strong opposition to the proposals for a £160m gasification plant on the site of the old Westbridge Depot in St James - close to Franklin's Gardens and just a seven minute stroll from Market Square.

It would heat rubbish and extract useable gases from it before burning the residue.

Northampton Borough Council has already reached a commercial agreement with developer Rolton Kilbride.

But campaigners say they hope worries about air pollution will prevent it getting planning permission.

Nancy Mirales and Tony Clarke. Credit: ITV News Anglia.

There are also concerns about the scale of the plant, with campaigners claiming the building would be visible from five miles away.

While the borough council says it believes the scheme is the best option for tax payers, some local politicians have also voiced their opposition.

The proposed site is right in the centre of Northampton. Credit: ITV News Anglia.

No one from Northampton Borough Council was available to comment but in a statement, developer Rolton Kilbride said the plant would be carefully monitored.