Four objections filed over new TNT plant permit applications

Four statements or objections were submitted by the deadline for Forcit’s new siting and construction permit applications for its planned explosives factory in Noormarkku, Pori, Yle reports.

Forcit intends to build a TNT plant in Noormarkku at a cost exceeding €200 million. The facility is classified as a major-accident hazard explosives factory.

Objections were filed by the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation Pori, the Safe Noormarkku association, and private individuals. Authorities, including the Finnish Defence Forces, the Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes), the National Emergency Supply Agency, and the Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom), were also requested to provide statements as part of the permit process.

Forcit will now respond to the statements and objections. The matters will be processed by Pori’s building control authority, with the aim of presenting the permit issues at the city’s vitality and environment board meeting on 26 June.

Forcit previously withdrew its initial permit application and submitted a new one due to changes in chemical safety and construction laws that took effect in April. The new law allows the construction of the explosives factory in Noormarkku under a placement permit for facilities critical to national defence.

Production at the plant is expected to begin in 2028, with preparatory work already underway. The factory will produce TNT, including for the needs of the Finnish Defence Forces.

Earlier in June, it was reported that the Administrative Court of Turku did not investigate complaints regarding the plant’s siting and deviation permits, as none of the complainants were deemed to have the right to appeal.