CONTROVERSIAL plans to build an incinerator next to a special school in Hatfield have moved a step closer after six companies were shortlisted for the project. Thirteen firms showed an interest in constructing the �200m incinerator, which has been

CONTROVERSIAL plans to build an incinerator next to a special school in Hatfield have moved a step closer after six companies were shortlisted for the project.

Thirteen firms showed an interest in constructing the �200m incinerator, which has been earmarked for the county council's New Barnfield site, next to Southfield School in Travellers Lane.

But following a meeting of senior councillors, the list of bidders was whittled down to half a dozen.

They are Covanta Energy, E.ON Energy from Waste, MVV Umwelt GmbH, the Shanks PFI Investments Ltd/Wheelabrator Technologies Inc consortium, the SITA UK Ltd consortium and Veolia Environmental Services.

Each firm will now be asked to submit an outline solution for dealing with the county's waste by September.

* Senior councillor praises bidders - see this week's Welwyn & Hatfield Times, out now.