Why we must worry about incinerator (From Northwich Guardian)

Why we must worry about incinerator

3:20pm Tuesday 16th June 2009

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I AM somewhat dumbfounded by the claim that the residents of Middlewich are being coerced into signing the petition against the siting of an incinerator in Middlewich.

Not only is Covanta bribing us with the promise of cheaper electricity and annual funds to local coffers, (why the need for a rebate when we, the taxpayers will be paying through the nose for them to burn our rubbish), we are being bombarded with one-sided information about the process.

Covanta IS applying for planning consent to burn 370,000 tonnes of Cheshire's rubbish, as well as about 344,000 tonnes per year of commercial and industrial waste.

From bitter experience of the incinerator situated in Padeswood, near Chester, prescribed limits of lead and other carcinogenic toxins are being allowed to enter the atmosphere on a regular basis, all this from a recently commissioned plant.

The operators have been fined £108,000 recently for breaching these limits and it is proposed to bury the ash in lead lined pits.

Who says these incinerators aren’t hazardous to health?

What happens when the plant begins to age and complacency sets in?

Not only is the Middlewich population at risk, but also all the food distribution companies and market gardens in the area with their employees. This is a case of pure dread at what is to become of Middlewich.

RICHARD MILLS

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