THE action group opposing proposals for a new waste transfer site in Bridgnorth is demanding that Shropshire Council meets with it and answers key questions relating to the plans.
The Faraday Drive Action Group committee met this week and says it is more determined than ever to stop the Veolia rubbish and recycling centre being developed on prime employment land when a more appropriate location is available nearby.
Some 300 letters of objection from local residents have been delivered to the council to date, plus 20 additional objections from established businesses on Faraday Drive and the Stourbridge Road – including high-profile major national company Craven Dunill.
The action group committee decided to postpone a meeting suggested by Veolia for next week and instead approach Shropshire Council for answers.
“We feel that any meeting with Veolia would simply tick planning process boxes, consultation would have taken place,” said action group chairman Bob Paggett.
“We need answers from Shropshire Council, not Veolia, and we intend to get them – it’s only fair that the council answer our questions and we want to arrange a meeting with officers and planning personnel as soon as possible.
“We all believe there is an alternative site for a waste transfer site adjacent to the Old Worcester Road, yet Veolia have stated that this site is unsuitable for several reasons.
“We don’t think the alternative is unsuitable and we want the council to provide us with a detailed feasibility study concerning the Old Worcester Road site.
“The number of townspeople opposed to this proposal is growing each day, the council cannot ignore the people whose interests it is surely supposed to represent and protect.”
Stewart Hickman, managing agent for Chartwell Development Ltd, last week confirmed the Old Worcester Road site could be made available for a waste transfer site. “The Faraday Drive Action Group has every right to demand the answers to key questions concerning the siting of a waste transfer site,” said Mr Hickman.
“A great many people have homes in the area and those that run businesses on or around Faraday Drive have dedicated their lives and their money to their companies, which ultimately helps support this town’s economy.
“Should a waste transfer site go ahead adjacent to Faraday Drive it would be detrimental to Bridgnorth in so many ways, from affecting the day-to-day lives of residents to seriously hampering local businesses – it will certainly not enhance the area.
“We have not recently been approached by either Shropshire Council or Veolia regarding the site being proposed by the businesses and residents whose situation could be seriously disadvantaged, but I would imagine any perceived site problems could be overcome if all parties are willing to be reasonable and constructive.”