Scrap metal project raises air quality concerns

Saint Johns clean air coalition is seeking a public meeting to discuss plans by a scrap metal recycler to expand its operations on the Saint John waterfront.

Montreal-based American Iron and Metal is planning to add a $30 million scrap metal shredder to its existing storage site on the west side of the Saint John Harbour.

But Gordon Dalzell, a spokesman with the citys clean air coalition, said he worries about the impact the shredder will have on the area.

Dalzell said he's watched dust spread from the metal recycling sight on windy days when crushed cars are moved around.

He said he worries too about added noise and the visual impact of piled scrap metal.

"Who wants to live beside an industrial junkyard right beside your condominium? I mean its not going to be the most aesthetically attractive type of operation," Dalzell said.

Another city environmental advocacy group, ACAP Saint John, has asked Herbert Black, the president of American Iron and Metal, to come to the city to discuss his proposal directly with the organization's board.

The public has until the end of October to respond to the company's application for provincial environmental approval.

More jobs

American Iron and Metal's proposed expansion also promises more jobs and more ships to the port.

Jim Quinn, the president and chief executive officer of the Saint John Port Authority, said the plan would benefit the port.

"Good news for the port and good news for the community," Quinn said.

"It always gives that opportunity for increased employment locally and increased revenue in the port, increased activity in the port."

The company, which started operating in Saint John in 2002,said the proposed facility could be running by spring 2011.

If it is constructed, the company's shredding facility could process up to 250,000 metric tonnes of scrap annually.

The company is also promising the project would create 23 new jobs and 20 spin-off jobs because of increased traffic at the Saint John Port and additional transportation needs.

American Iron and Metal already employees three workers in its metal sorting plant in Saint John.