Buckfastleigh residents are a step closer to a parish poll about a waste processing plant proposed for Whitecleave Quarry.

Planning permission for the scheme, which would handle construction material and ash from a waste incinerator, is being sought by Gilpin Demolition Ltd and MVV Environment Devonport Ltd.

Opposition has been widespread in the town amid fears about toxic ash, noise and extra lorry movements.

On Tuesday 36 residents who declared themselves to be on the electoral roll were among those at a parish meeting in the town hall. They voted unanimously in favour of the ballot idea.

The question they want the rest of the town to consider will be: 'Do you want Whitecleave Quarry in Buckfastleigh to be used for any handling, processing or storage of industrial waste and bottom ash from waste incineration?'

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