EXETER'S proposed 'energy from waste' facility will meet rigorous safety requirements, Devon County Council has pledged.

Responding to recent claims, the council says health and environmental concerns have been fully addressed and that continuous monitoring of the plant would be required.

Last month, the Environment Agency launched a public consultation on its draft decision to issue an environmental permit for the non-hazardous waste incinerator at Marsh Barton.

Councillor Roger Croad, cabinet member for Environmental and Regulatory Services, said: "The county council would not promote a facility unless it was considered to be safe."

The consultation period will last for 20 working days, ending on 26 October.