21 February 2024
**GOVERNMENT GREENLIGHTS CONSTRUCTION OF CONTROVERSIAL INCINERATOR DESPITE STRONG OBJECTIONS**
The Government's approval of plans to construct an incinerator on the outskirts of Wisbech has sparked widespread concern and criticism from local representatives, campaigners, and concerned citizens.
Despite fervent appeals from MPs, councillors, local political parties, and activists, the MMV Medworth proposals have been given the green light by Claire Coutinho, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. The decision, which came earlier than expected, allows for the construction of the incinerator on the existing waste management site on the Algores Way industrial estate.
In a statement, the Planning Inspectorate cited the perceived public benefits of the proposed development as outweighing the identified harms, leading to the granting of development consent. However, concerns about potential air pollution have been downplayed, with assurances of only a "minor (not significant)" impact.
The decision has prompted strong opposition from local MPs, including North East Cambridgeshire MP Steve Barclay and South West Norfolk counterpart Liz Truss, who had fervently lobbied for an alternative outcome. West Norfolk borough councillor Alex Kemp has labelled the incinerator as a potential "catastrophe" for Wisbech, echoing widespread community apprehension.
Despite assurances from MVV that the incinerator will be a "state of the art, energy from waste combined heat and power facility," concerns persist regarding its environmental and health impacts.
Emma Pollard, chair of Fenland Green Party, said: "This decision underscores the need for greater scrutiny and transparency in planning processes and reinforces the importance of community engagement in major infrastructure projects. The lack of an automatic right to appeal only underscores the urgency of ensuring that the voices of residents are heard and respected in decisions affecting their communities.”
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