Agenda and minutes

The notes of the meeting held on 27 October 2015 were agreed as a correct record.

Nick Parsons reported on the following:

·         There had been no significant changes with the Category 1 Animal By-Product (ABP) market and production volumes remained stable and in line with 2016 forecasts.

·         Operational reliability continues to be good with no significant plant breakdowns.

·         Process operations continue to be predominantly carried out at night.

·         Preparation works for the new air condenser have been completed which included the removal of two redundant gas oil tanks and two tallow tanks, therefore greatly improving the aesthetics in the area.  The new air condenser will be installed and commissioned during May 2016 which will replace the wet cooling tower and condenser.  The water plume from the tower will no longer be visible as a result of these works, and there will be a significant reduction in water use. The perception of odour may be reduced due to the removal of the visible plume. 

·         A new laboratory facility has now been completed.

The report attached to the agenda detailed complaints made since the last meeting and the results of any investigations.

A complaints summary was circulated (attached) which detailed comparisons for each quarter back to 2002.

One additional complaint had been received since the distribution of the agenda on 11 April which was detailed on the summary.

Very few complaints were received from the Alphington and St Thomas areas.

Last year saw the lowest level of complaints since 2002, and complaints to date in 2016 were very low.  Nick added that the company was not complacent with regards the reduction in complaint numbers, and there was consistent dialogue with the City Council and considerations around odour impact.

Nick Parsons also advised that there had been a breakdown of another plant which resulted in Exeter processing more than normal over a period of 10 days, during which no complaints were made.

The Senior Environmental Technical Officer referred to the City Council’s all-out elections on 5 May and the possible change to membership from the next meeting, and thanked the residents’ representatives for their continuity on the Group.

In response to a resident’s comments regarding a community newsletter received, it was acknowledged that this Group comprised the relevant ward members regardless of their political party.

The date of the next meeting was noted.