CAMPAIGNERS fighting plans for a waste to energy incinerator in Keighley must still wait to discover whether they will have their day in court to try and defeat the proposals.

The Aire Valley Against Incineration (AVAI) group, has submitted its application for a Judicial Review of Bradford Council's decision to approve the incinerator plans, which were submitted by the company Endless Energy Ltd.

But a judge must decide whether AVAI has an "arguable case" for the review in order for opponents of the scheme to challenge the council's planning decision in court.

An AVAI spokesman said: "We are still waiting to hear back from a judge as to whether we can have our day in court for the Judicial Review.

"In the meantime, although we met our last fundraising target, we're still accepting donations. The more we raise, the stronger a case we can build."

As of last Friday, (Sept 8) the total raised by AVAI to fund its campaign had reached £28,792.

The spokesman added: "We've had another very successful event which raised £272 for the campaign.

"On August 19 we had a brilliant evening at The Exchange Music Venue, in Keighley.

"The event was organised by Tim Holt and we had music from Liam Newton, Lynsey Cawthra and headliners, Pepperjam. It really was an excellent night.

"We're holding our next public meeting on Monday October 2 from 7.30pm to 9pm at Central Hall, Alice Street, Keighley.

"We should have heard from the court by this time and will be able to give a full update.

"Keighley MP John Grogan will also be speaking at the meeting and will be able to answer questions people have for him."

Simon Shimbles, of AVAI, said: "The documentation for our Judicial Review bid included an outline of our case which revolves around legal mistakes which we believe were made during Endless Energy's planning application.

"They relate to East Riddlesden Hall and also to Rombalds Moor. In addition there was some supporting documentation, including witness statements. All this was submitted on May 23.

"We haven't heard from the judge yet, but we are not unduly worried by this, and we have every confidence. We believe we have a very strong case indeed.

"Also, the developers have yet to apply for a permit from the Environment Agency. This is usually done concurrently with the planning permission application, but not in this case it seems."

Opponents of the controversial application for the waste to energy incinerator argue it will inflict harmful pollution on the Aire Valley and its surroundings and will blight the appearance of the landscape.

But Endless Energy has said the facility will provide an environmentally friendly form of energy, while conforming to strict European emission standards.