Secretary of State rejects planned Veolia incinerator

The Secretary of State has refused permission for the proposed Veolia Incinerator in Hoddesdon

Following a lengthy battle against Veolia’s planned incinerator which was to be located in Ratty’s Lane, Hoddesdon, the Secretary of State has determined that planning permission should be refused.

The Waste management company first put in the planning application for the development and operation of the incinerator in 2016, which led to serious concerns being raised related to lorry movements, visual impact and the local environment,  emissions and impact on wildlife.

Despite concerns and fierce protesting from local stakeholders, Hertfordshire County Council resolved to grant planning permission. The Environment Agency also issued an operating permit. The Planning Inspector who presided over the public inquiry which was held between 19 June and 25 September 2018 recommended that planning permission be granted. However, after extensive and careful consideration of the application, in a letter dated 19 July, the Secretary of State disagreed with the Inspector’s recommendation and refused planning permission for the proposal for the construction and operation of an Energy Recovery Facility for the treatment of municipal, commercial and industrial wastes.

Speaking about the decision, Leader of Broxbourne Council, Councillor Lewis Cocking said:

this is a day to celebrate and I would like to thank everyone who was involved in the campaign; residents, councillors, businesses and Broxbourne's MP Charles Walker for their efforts.

Although the Secretary of State’s decision may be challenged within 6 weeks from 20 July, the Council remains hopeful that the decision will remain final. Cllr Cocking said:

I sincerely hope that Veolia and Hertfordshire County Council will now respect the wishes of people who live in Broxbourne and accept the Secretary of State’s decision as an end to the matter.

Published: 22nd July 2019