14 February 2024

 

Wisbech Incinerator Update

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho will decide next Wednesday whether to grant permission for MVV Environment to construct the Medworth Energy from Waste Combined Heat and Power Facility.

The company aims to erect the incinerator on the outskirts of Wisbech, in Cambridgeshire, with plans to burn 500,000 tonnes of waste annually. This facility, touted as one of the largest of its kind in Europe, is designed to convert waste into energy for local businesses.

However, opposition to the project has emerged from both sides of the border. Fenland District Council, Norfolk County Council, West Norfolk Council and Cambridgeshire County Council have all raised objections.

Concerns have been voiced regarding the potential increase in carbon dioxide emissions, the impact of additional lorries on local roads, potential harm to historic sites and farms, and doubts about the necessity of the incinerator given the current waste disposal capacity.

Following a series of public hearings, the Planning Inspectorate, responsible for overseeing nationally significant developments, has made a recommendation to the government. Claire Coutinho must decide by Wednesday, with the option to either accept or disregard the recommendation.

Former Prime Minister Liz Truss, whose South West Norfolk constituency is near the proposed site, has called for the project's rejection. North East Cambridgeshire MP Steve Barclay has also voiced opposition.

Representatives from the campaign group Wisbech Without Incineration have expressed concerns raised by food factories in the town, which fear closure if the incinerator is approved. They highlight potential air pollution, and the substantial impact the facility's size could have on the surrounding area, noting that the proposed chimneys would surpass the height of Ely Cathedral. The group have campaigned tirelessly for several years, orchestrating numerous successful campaigns to ensure their voices are heard.

The Environment Agency (EA) has announced a consultation period, running until February 22, during which they will consider issuing an environmental permit for the facility. Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation to ensure the EA understands the depth of opposition to the incinerator among Fenland residents.

Many of us have been protesting the proposed incinerator for years and as a local Green Party we have written to MP Steve Barclay, MP Liz Truss and the Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho. We have also commented on the EA consultation to make sure that our concerns are noted.

With just under a week left to make your mark, please make sure that you have made your views clear on the EA website and join the Wisbech Without Incineration Facebook group if you haven’t already so you can keep up to date. 

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