Published: Friday, 21st March, 2008 09:00
You're all burnt out
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CAMPAIGNERS opposing the construction of a massive incinerator claim the scheme is dead and buried.
They are delighted that its controversial planning application has been “put on hold pending a review” by Viridor Waste Management.
This has been interpreted by opponents as a victory, though Viridor stress it has not withdrawn its bid.
Its proposed £140 million energy-from-waste (EfW) combined heat and power facility at Oxwellmains has been fiercely resisted since the company’s plans were revealed last August.
And its proposals suffered a blow when the Scottish Government declared its opposition to large-scale incinerators.
Company spokesman Dan Cooke said: “It is only sensible that we review our proposals in light of the Scottish Government announcements.
“We would like to clarify that Viridor is fully committed to the health and safety of its employees, neighbours, and the surrounding communities in which it operates.
“The application has not been withdrawn, as some local parties would suggest. It has been put on hold, pending a review.”
East Lothian’s environment director, Pete Collins, confirmed that the planning application had been suspended.
Philip Banks, of steering group Incensed Residents Against Toxic Emissions (IRATE), said: “It is clear that Viridor has now begun to recognise that its position is untenable.
“A month ago, they were dismissing the Cabinet Secretary’s statement in Parliament, which ruled out super-incinerators from the Scottish scene, as mere soundbites. They are now learning otherwise.
“A month ago, they dismissed IRATE as ‘reckless scaremongers’ for raising legitimate questions about the health risks of incineration. (MSP) Iain Gray’s parliamentary question confirms that particulates cause serious health problems. Viridor’s own spokesperson has admitted that incinerator chimneys emit particulates. Need I say more?
“It is typical that Viridor has chosen to sneak out its decision to review their planning application with minimum publicity.
“They do not want the people of Scotland to know they are beaten.”
East Lothian MSP Mr Gray said: “At the very least, it is welcome that Viridor is reviewing its plans to take account of recent Scottish Government announcements.”
Added the county MSP: “However, given the Government’s position and the concerns of local people, I cannot see how any plans for a large-scale incinerator could expect to get the green light.”
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