The time for submitting objections to the proposed waste incinerating facility at Barr/Killoch has passed but on the final weekend before the consultation period closed protestors were out and about making their voices heard.

Representatives from the Say No to Waste Incinerator at Killoch group protested near to the proposed site, waving placards at traffic.

They then went to the council’s headquarters to hand in 519 signed objection letters.

Chief amongst their concerns are the pollution the site would emit and the traffic it would bring to the area.

Among the objectors was South Scotland Labour MSP Carol Mochan, who has attended a number of roadside protests in Mauchline over recent weeks.

She said: “It is clear from the constituents I have spoken to, the more than 500 letters handed in to the council, and the well over 500 separate objections registered officially on the council’s own website that this proposed incinerator does not have the support of local people.

“In each conversation I have had with local people concerns about industrial traffic, increased odours in the surrounding villages, and the long term damage to our climate have been paramount.

“Given the Scottish Government have accepted the case for incinerators across Scotland needs to be reviewed I think it is only sensible that this plan is halted in its tracks.”

SNP politicians, including councillors Jacqui Todd, Jim McMahon, and Elena Whitham MSP say they are against the plans.

Cllr Todd said: “The increased traffic and associated emissions that will pass through the village are of concern. Air quality, and the associated pollutants from traffic are recognised as having negative effect on respiratory health.”

Whitham said: “It is the Scottish Government’s position that the use of incinerators in Scotland’s waste hierarchy must be reviewed... it feels very counterintuitive and premature to proceed to determination on an application of this type at this time.”

A decision over the application now lies with planning chiefs.