More than a thousand residents from Canford Magna, Merley, and Bearwood have expressed strong opposition as plans for a new incinerator near Canford Magna appear likely to move forward. The proposed facility, which would burn up to 260,000 tonnes of non-hazardous waste annually, aims to generate electricity that would be supplied to the National Grid.

The incinerator project, put forward by MVV Environment Ltd, has raised significant concerns regarding its potential impact on human health, local wildlife, ecosystems, and carbon dioxide emissions. Campaigners, including Sarah Pascoe, have voiced their distress, emphasising the environmental risks and broader implications. Speaking to Rayo, Pascoe said, “It's horrendous. These chemicals and the plume generated from the incinerator can travel hundreds of miles so inevitably will blow over all of us.” She added, “We aren't NIMBYs, this is all our backyards yet we've made the whole world into one big litterbox and now we just keep adding to it.”

Local activists from the Magwatch Facebook group have also highlighted fears that the incinerator could harm rare species inhabiting the surrounding heathlands. Pascoe noted, “If the incinerator is approved it will undoubtedly have a detrimental impact on wildlife, ecosystems as well as our health.” She further suggested that such effects might reduce the area's appeal as both a place to live and visit.

The Environment Agency is currently in the process of granting the necessary permit for the facility. A spokesperson for the agency stated: “Following earlier consultations, we have now reached the stage where we are likely to grant the permit, having received all of the necessary information from the applicant, MVV Environment Ltd.” However, the spokesperson clarified that this is not the final decision, explaining, “This does not mean a final decision has been taken, only that we will grant the permit unless we receive new information that gives cause for not allowing it.”

Members of the public have until 23 May to submit their views on the proposed incinerator, which is to be sited on Canford Resource Park. The consultation represents the last opportunity for stakeholders to influence the agency’s decision-making process.

The Rayo newsroom continues to monitor this developing story and will provide updates as further information becomes available.

Source: Noah Wire Services