Can I see information on permitted processes in Bolton?
A list of current and old permitted processes is provided in ’Downloads’
The Public Register filing cabinet contains files on all permitted processes and can be viewed at the Pollution Control Unit office. Please make an appointment.
What are Environmental Permits for industrial/commercial processes?
Some industrial and commercial processes that can cause pollution need to be 'permitted' to operate. You will find the law in the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2007, statutory instrument number 2007/3538. A permit contains conditions which can be legally enforced to make sure pollution is kept under control. Government guidance notes and manuals are provided by defra.
The processes are classified in law as Part A(1), Part A(2), and Part B.
Part A(1) activities are regulated by the Environment Agency. These include large iron and steel works, brickworks, chemical production, waste disposal etc.
Part A(2) activities within Bolton are regulated by the Pollution Control Unit, Bolton Council. Examples include some smaller but similar activities to those under Part A(1).
Part B activities within Bolton are regulated by Bolton Council. See below.
Which processes need a permit?
The Regulations say exactly which installations need a permit. In several cases only installations over a certain size need one. Listed below are some examples as an illustration:
- Combustion processes e.g. waste oil burners,
- Incinerators e.g. crematoria and waste incineration,
- Timber processes e.g. timber manufacture and timber treatment,
- Mineral processes e.g. cement plant and mineral screening, grading and crushing,
- Animal and plant treatment processes e.g. animal feed manufacture, pet food, composting,
- Solvent and oil recovery processes e.g. petrol filling stations and dry cleaners,
- Coating processes e.g. printing, vehicle re-spraying.
How can I find out if I need a permit?
If you think you might need a permit contact the Pollution Control Unit which can advise you. You can also visit the Environment Agency website.
What is involved in a applying for a permit?
You will need to:
- Complete an application form, please phone 01204 336500,
- Include the application fee (see below),
- Give a full description of the process, including precautions taken to minimise or prevent air pollution,
- Enclose drawings and process diagrams,
- Describe techniques for monitoring, sampling and measurement of air emissions,
- Include a statement of how your proposal will meet the 'Best Available Techniques’ (BAT) objectives any other information specifically requested.
How much will it cost me?
The fees are set by defra and are generally changed every year. Fees are paid when an application is made, every year that a process operates and at other times also. To see the current charges visit the defra site - please use the link on the right hand side of this page.