Liberal Democrats call for public inquiry on potential Incinerators

12.00.00am GMT Fri 26th Dec 2008

The Liberal Democrats are calling for an independent public inquiry on the new incinerator sites. The County Council are currently running the consultation, over the 'Waste Core Strategy Issues and Options' document, which identifies five sites for incinerators, and four sites for landfill.

This time last year, the Liberal Democrats highlighted how the Conservative administration was leaving public consultation to the last minute. The consultation period, which started on December 1st, lasts under two months, and has been timed to coincide with one of the busiest seasons. This gives very little time for the public to convey their opinions of the project to the County council.

Cllr for Gipping Valley John Field said, "In conversation with members of the public and parish councils, I have heard concerns over the timing of this consultation. How can an organisation that has a vested interest in seeing an Incinerator built view all opinions and considerations equally? And in such a short time! A public inquiry is the only way one can ensure that the public's views on the incinerator sites will be received fairly."

Group Leader Kathy Pollard said, "The Liberal Democrats feel that a public inquiry must take place, remembering what has already happened in this process shows us that the Conservatives are reluctant to run an open and fair consultation.

The Waste document, doesn't mention a choice over what type of technology will be used on these sites. This is especially concerning as it leaves the door open for County to resort to mass burn Incinerators. Instead the Council should be focused and committed to providing the best possible technology, reducing the potential effects on the environment and public health. As well as providing a degree of flexibility in the 30 year contract."