The developer behind the Rivenhall Incinerator refused to attend a public meeting on the latest proposals, campaigners have claimed.

More than 100 people attended the event at Coggeshall Village Hall on Friday, however representatives of Gent Fairhead declined campaigners’ invitations to take part.

The latest application submitted to Essex County Council, is to increase the stack height of the incinerator to 58m.

A spokesman for Gent Fairhead, said that the meeting was arranged at “short notice” and the public consultation period had ended.

“The planning applications have been made to address issues raised by councillors and members of the public who, in particular, had expressed concern that the original height of the stack was too low.

“The Site Liaison Group (SLG) has been provided with regular updates relating to all planning and permitting matters.

“The SLG will continue to be the main forum for discussing with local residents and interested parties any matters arising from the planning, construction and future operations of the facility.”

Priti Patel, MP for Witham, is backing residents’ No Essex Incinerator campaign and in a statement read at the meeting, said plans should be to scrapped.

A statement from Ms Patel said: “The development of the Rivenhall Incinerator is an outrage and will cause harm and disruption to surrounding communities. The impact on health and on our roads cannot be underestimated. This development is unwelcome and unwanted.”

“As things stand, the decision by the Environment Agency to grant an environmental permit is deeply disappointing and I know that local people are concerned about the current planning application being considered by Essex County Council. These proposals can still be blocked and I will do all I can to work with local campaigners to stop them.”

Campaigners want the application to be called in by Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Environment and Rural Affairs.