Lafarge Cement UK wants to introduce waste-derived fuel to help cut escalating energy costs after a downturn in demand for construction products.

An application is to be submitted to the Environment Agency following public consultation over its Cauldon works in the UK

Manager Nicolas Maes said the Construction Products Association suggests the UK will see the largest fall in construction output on record this year. He added: "The current economic climate shows how important it is for companies to remain competitive. With this in mind, we are working hard to maintain a good cost position and protect employment. Our approach so far, to keep our costs in check through fuel cost savings, is proving effective. However, we need to continue to improve and develop new opportunities for protecting Cauldon Works’ future."

The firm already uses scrap tyre chips and processed sewage pellets as fuel.