Application for an environmental permit
For the MAXIMA wastewater treatment system to become a reality, VA SYD must apply for a permit under Chapters 9 and 11 of the Environmental Code. The application for an environmental permit to build and operate the wastewater treatment system was submitted to the Land and Environment Court in May 2023.
Obtaining an environmental permit to build and operate the MAXIMA wastewater treatment system is an extensive process that includes several stages. After carrying out relevant studies and consultations with those affected, VA SYD has assessed and evaluated the environmental impact and developed proposals for conditions. The permit application has now been completed and submitted to the Land and Environment Court at Växjö District Court so as not to delay the timetable.
Scope of the permit application
In short, VA SYD is seeking an environmental permit for this:
To obtain a permit with conditions for the discharge of treated wastewater from 650,000 population equivalents (a measure for the design of wastewater treatment plants) from a new Sjölunda wastewater treatment plant
To build a robust new Sjölunda wastewater treatment plant with new outlet pipes into the Öresund, a new pumping station at Sjölunda and a wastewater tunnel beneath the centre of Malmö
Discharge of groundwater, infiltration and other water activities such as works in the Öresund during the construction phase
Any permit required to operate in or near Natura 2000 sites.
About the judicial proceedings
Having your application reviewed by the Land and Environment Court is a process that can take around two years. The court starts by assessing whether the permit application needs additional information. Once the application is complete, the court initiates a consultation period by publishing a notice (advertisement) in the local press. During the consultation period, parties concerned, the general public, municipalities, the county administrative board and other public authorities are given access to the plans for MAXIMA and have the opportunity to comment on the case. VA SYD must respond to the comments received. Once the consultation period is over, the court holds a main hearing that is open to everyone. The hearing is likely to be held in Malmö.
Permit decision
When the hearing has been completed, the Land and Environment Court decides whether the activity may be carried out or not and the conditions that apply to the permit. The judgment may be appealed against to the Land and Environment Court of Appeal by you or others who are affected. The deadline for appeals is stated in the judgment.
View the environmental permit application
You can view the application here. The application consists of a main document, the application document itself, which describes the activity applied for, and its appendices. The application documents are written i swedish.