A TOXICOLOGIST is to speak about the health impacts of biomass plants at a meeting in Tenbury Wells.

Campaigners against a planned plant in the town have invited Dr Dick van Steenis, a retired GP, to speak at a meeting on Wednesday, November 28, at the community centre.

The Tenbury Action Group said the wood-fired power station would emit fine particulates, known as PM2.5 and PM1, depending on their size, which are so small that they can be breathed in.

Dr van Steenis claims that some of the adverse effects of such particulates include birth defects, premature deaths, cot deaths, autism, and asthma. A spokesman for the Tenbury Action Group said: "We urge everyone in the area to come and listen to Dr van Steenis speak.

"We think it important that people can get information from an independent expert.

"Whether you live in Worcestershire, or simply near the county's borders, these plans could directly affect you and your children."

The event starts at 7.30pm and after the talk there will be a question and answer session. Admisison is free and all are welcome.

The Tenbury biomass plant is to be developed by CJ Day Associates and a planning application has been submitted. The scheme has been backed by Worcestershire County Council, which has denied claims it is planning to build a number of biomass plants over the next five years.

A spokesman said: "In relation to the proposed Tenbury Biomass plant, a full feasibility survey has been carried out and has been approved.

"Worcestershire County Council has facilitated a number of community events and briefings in an attempt to be as open as possible and to ensure that the local community were informed and involved in the proposals.

"As for the development of any other sites in the county there are no immediate plans at this stage."

For more details on the plans and the talk visit www.civicsociety.info