CAMPAIGNERS fighting a controversial waste incinerator project have launched a £20,000 fundraising drive.

North Yorkshire Waste Action Group (NYWAG) said it urgently needs to create a war chest as, if granted, a judicial review over the £1.4 billion scheme at Allerton Park, near Knaresborough, could be held before the summer.

The High Court is to decide whether or not a judge should re-examine the lawfulness of North Yorkshire County Council's decision to grant the scheme planning permission decision.

It can take a year for a judicial review to reach court, but it is understood the council will press the court to have the case heard quickly.

NYWAG chairman Steve Wright said while the Government’s decision not to provide private finance was a serious blow to the incinerator project, as planning permission remained for the scheme it could go ahead if the council or waste firm AmeyCespa could plug the funding gap.

He said: “We have instructed and are working with one of the best QCs in this field, who says we have a good case.

“Every North Yorkshire household will benefit by stopping the huge cuts to public services that are already happening to fund this scheme.”

Mr Wright also urged residents to challenge candidates standing in the county council elections next month to reveal their views on the scheme.

A council spokeswoman said it would robustly defend the case for the incinerator should a judicial review be granted.