24/09/2015
Planning Permission Refused To Develop Hightown Incinerator
The SDLP and the Alliance Party have welcomed the decision to refuse planning permission for a waste incinerator to be developed near Mallusk, Co Antrim.
SDLP North Belfast MLA Alban Maginness said the decision reflected the strong campaign mounted by local residents and was a testament to those who have opposed the development.
He said: "To propose an incinerator plant so close to several large residential developments, schools and an area of high scenic value like the Belfast Hills was fatally misguided. The response of local people has been impressive, proportionate and entirely justified. The SDLP will continue to support them.
"It's important now that the ARC 21 councils take due regard of this decision and the views of those who have campaigned for so long. Waste management should be based on green, environmentally friendly alternatives to incineration. Their entire approach requires a fundamental rethink."
Alliance Councillor John Blair said: "While Alliance recognises and supports the excellent environmental benefits that securing energy from waste can bring, this should never be at the expense of people's safety.
"Simply put - the Mallusk and Sandyknowes area do not have the necessary infrastructure in place to sustain a significant increase in traffic and I am glad the Minister has finally been able to listen to the concerns of local residents and make the right decision."
(CD/LM)
SDLP North Belfast MLA Alban Maginness said the decision reflected the strong campaign mounted by local residents and was a testament to those who have opposed the development.
He said: "To propose an incinerator plant so close to several large residential developments, schools and an area of high scenic value like the Belfast Hills was fatally misguided. The response of local people has been impressive, proportionate and entirely justified. The SDLP will continue to support them.
"It's important now that the ARC 21 councils take due regard of this decision and the views of those who have campaigned for so long. Waste management should be based on green, environmentally friendly alternatives to incineration. Their entire approach requires a fundamental rethink."
Alliance Councillor John Blair said: "While Alliance recognises and supports the excellent environmental benefits that securing energy from waste can bring, this should never be at the expense of people's safety.
"Simply put - the Mallusk and Sandyknowes area do not have the necessary infrastructure in place to sustain a significant increase in traffic and I am glad the Minister has finally been able to listen to the concerns of local residents and make the right decision."
(CD/LM)
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