THE fight is still on to prevent the storage of hazardous waste in a Mid Cheshire salt mine despite a High Court ruling giving the scheme the green light.

The decision to reject a High Court challenge made by Moulton resident John Kent against proposals to storing hazardous waste in Winsford Rock Salt Mine was announced on Friday.

It is a major blow to campaigners but Mr Kent is now preparing to appeal.

He said: "This is not over yet by a long way.

"I am extremely disappointed about the case I have lost but the fight will go on.

"I am taking further action with Cheshire County Council and the Secretary of State over the granting of a PCC permit by the Environment Agency.

"This permit is unsafe under European law and it is now in the hands of my solicitor.

"We are doing everything in our power to stop this from happening and we will keep fighting."

The High Court ruling has been met with relief by bosses at Minosus, the company behind the proposals.

Speaking after the announcement Roger Shaw, managing director, said: "We are pleased with today's outcome because it means we are now able to put the necessary construction work in hand to have our operation at Winsford in business by June of next year.

"The timing is important because in July 2005 legislation on waste acceptance criteria comes into force meaning that an underground facility like ours becomes even more important for the safe disposal of certain hazardous wastes."

Mr Kent made the challenge after the decision last year by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to allow hazardous waste in certain parts of the mine.

Mr Kent said: "There is widespread opposition to this from residents, councillors and politicians and although the High Court challenge is a setback I'm confident we can stop this thing."

phennessey@guardiangrp.co.uk