Westbury Gasification Action Group (WGAG) is appealing for help in their quest to stop a waste treatment plant being built in the town, by setting up a crowdfunding page.
Recent efforts to spread their message have been funded by members of the group. They are opposing plans by Northacre Renewable Energy (NRE), part of Hills Waste Ltd, which currently has one application for the plant granted and two applications pending a decision.
Margaret Cavanna of WGAG says, “WGAG wants to put up a good fight but to do this, we need some urgent specialist help. Several group members have funded campaign materials up to now, including around 10,000 flyers! We now need support to carry this on and keep getting communications out. We really appreciate your donations of any amount.
“The campaign also has some great benefits including; empowering people to speak out to protect their local environment; raising awareness of the implications of our consumer habits and how we need to change our use of resources, and building community by a wide range of people campaigning together.
“In the event of any underspend of funds collected, the amount would be donated to a local charity or community organisation selected by WGAG group members.
“You can donate via www.crowdfunder.co.uk/no-westbury-incinerator-#start or if preferred, donations can be made to Westbury Gasification Action Group bank account: Sort code 309626 Acct 44858468.
“Just let us know if you have donated by the bank account via email to westburygag@gmail.com. Thank you.”
Planning permission was granted to Northacre Renewable Energy in 2015 by Wiltshire Council to build the plant, but NRE now say they wish to ‘deliver a better facility’ with new and improved technology. A second application was then submitted in 2018 to make amendments to their existing plans, including a taller chimney. This was refused by Wiltshire Council in July, due to the size and bulk of the building. NRE has now lodged an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate about this decision and the closing date for consultation is 7th January.
You still have time to submit your comments to the appeal, closing on 7th January. There are three ways to submit your comments; email tim.salter@pins.gsi.gov.uk, send online on www. gov.uk/appeal-planning- inspectorate searching reference 3215579, or write in black, ideally with three copies, to: Planning Inspectorate, Room 3/10b, Kite Way, 2 The Square, Temple Quay House, Bristol BS1 6PN.
The third plan is likely to be discussed at the Strategic Planning Committee at County Hall on 23rd January.
