FURTHER investigation into a proposed animal incinerator near Guisborough has been recommended, following concerns about residents' safety.

The North York Moors National Park Authority recently granted planning permission for the incinerator at Charltons.

However, Redcar and Cleveland Council has claimed too many questions regarding health issues remain unanswered. It cannot overturn planning permission but it has the power to grant or withhold an operating licence.

The incinerator would be run by a long-established family firm, J E Noddings and Son, which already has a knackers' yard for dealing with fallen stock at Stable House industrial estate. It wants to run the new incinerator at the same site.

The firm says its proposed incinerator would meet modern European environmental guidelines, provide a vital service for local farmers and stock-keepers, and help retain jobs.

Journey times and distances travelled would increase if farmers had to travel elsewhere for such services, the firm said.

A petition against the incinerator was signed by 600 people, who said they were concerned about the possible risk of pollution. And a protest was held at the site during a planning visit.

However, some residents supported the proposal, saying the Noddings were sensible operators and provided a necessary service.

But John Tombs, chairman of Lockwood Parish Council, welcomed the call for more information from Redcar and Cleveland Council.

Speaking after the authority's meeting, he said: "We are very pleased with the outcome of this. The borough councillors were very concerned about the health risks this incinerator would pose to us. At last someone is listening to us."

The proposed incinerator will be discussed at a future Redcar and Cleveland Council scrutiny meeting.

A council spokesman said: "At the end of the meeting, a report will be given to the council's executive. That report could include recommendations, but the council accepts it cannot overturn the national park authority's planning decision."