A proposed waste plant could threaten nearby forensic operations, officials have warned.
The planned anaerobic digestion facility in Hindlip, Worcestershire, would sit close to the headquarters of West Mercia Police.
Critics say it risks contaminating evidence and undermining major investigations due to potential air pollution .
COMMISSIONER: John Campion says the proposed site is “completely inappropriate” for a digester (Image: Supplied)
John Campion, West Mercia’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “There can be no room for error when it comes to protecting forensic evidence.
“The integrity of that evidence is fundamental to securing justice for victims and ensuring offenders are held to account.
“I fully recognise the importance of sustainable waste management, but it cannot come at the expense of the police’s ability to carry out investigations.
CRIME: Forensic evidence must be protected, say police chiefs (Image: newsquest)
“It is completely inappropriate for a site like this to be positioned next to a police headquarters, let alone forensics laboratories.”
Anaerobic digester plans to be decided by council
A Worcestershire County Council planning committee is due to consider the application next Tuesday (June 30).
The site is under review despite ongoing objections from West Mercia Police , Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, and Mr Campion himself.
Concerns centre on how the facility could affect emergency vehicle deployment, air quality, and noise levels at the police HQ.
LOCATION: The proposed site of Stenergy’s Anaerobic Digestion Facility at Court Farm, Hindlip (Image: Newsquest)
Of particular concern is the risk of air contamination impacting forensic laboratories, potentially compromising thousands of criminal cases.
The integrity of forensic evidence relies on tightly controlled environments, something police fear could be threatened by nearby industrial emissions.
Mr Campion said: “We have provided expert evidence that shows the impact of this proposed development.
“The applicant has not provided enough evidence to show how policing services would be protected from potential contamination.
“The consequences of getting this wrong are simply too great.
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“I hope and expect decision-makers at the council give careful consideration to the risks that have been identified in this case.
“We must do what is necessary to safeguard vital emergency services that the public rely on.”
Millions have been invested in ensuring the police headquarters meets the highest standards for evidence handling, with concerns that any compromise could jeopardise justice for victims, Mr Campion said.
Further objections focus on the impact of airborne particles on police dog training and operational effectiveness.
The planning application is recommended for conditional approval by officers but the final decision will sit with councillors.
