A Planning Inspectorate decision issued today (1 October 2026) has quashed the Environment Agency’s revocation notice, allowing Reclamet to continue operating at its Woodchurch Road site in Birchington.
Inspector Stephen Normington, appointed by the Secretary of State, concluded that revoking the permit would not be “reasonable, proportionate or necessary” following a public inquiry held from 20-22 May 2026.
The decision means the site can continue operating, with Reclamet saying it will protect 75 local jobs.
Reclamet Managing Director Stuart Mann commented: “Today’s decision has brought important clarity after several years of uncertainty for our business and our staff. It allows our team to look ahead with confidence and continue providing an important recycling service for Kent and beyond.
“We have always taken concerns raised by our neighbours very seriously and commissioned independent noise assessments and investigated mitigation measures. We welcome the Inspector’s recognition that revoking our permit was not a reasonable, proportionate or necessary response.”
Action over noise concerns
The appeal followed enforcement action by the Environment Agency over noise from recycling operations at the site and its impact on neighbouring Nelson Park Riding Centre and an associated residential property.
In his decision, Inspector Normington found that the Environment Agency had not adequately justified its categorisation of noise from the site as “major pollution”.
The inspector also identified shortcomings in the Environment Agency’s engagement with Reclamet in exploring potential noise mitigation measures.
He found there was “little evidence” that the social, environmental and economic implications of revoking the permit had been carefully considered.
Mann added: “We remain committed to minimising the impact of our operations and have already commissioned further work to explore improvements to noise mitigation.”
Reclamet has applied for a full award of costs against the Environment Agency. The application will be considered in a separate decision.
The Planning Inspectorate’s decision follows the public inquiry into the Environment Agency’s revocation of Reclamet’s environmental permit for the Woodchurch Road site.
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