Incinerator opponents can hold heads high

Published: 28 August, 2009

Sir — Invergordon Community Council, would like to express sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to stopping an incinerator being built in our historic town.

There has been a huge commitment in time and resources by so many individuals and pressure groups – we commend you all for your voluntary efforts and support.

It is reassuring to know that – with a notable exception – our neighbouring communities also gave their 100 per cent support to our fight, especially Saltburn and Ardross Community Councils.

A huge thank you should also be given to Cromarty Firth Ward Highland Councillors Mike Finlayson, Martin Rattray and Maxine Smith, who after hearing arguments for and against the incinerator, stood tall and voted against the planning application being granted.

Several other Highland Councillors from wards in close proximity also questioned health, road safety, economic and ethical issues and came to the conclusion that this blot on the landscape should not proceed.

Invergordon Community Council uncovered serious flaws in the procedures of the Highland Council planning department, relating to this incinerator planning application – we understand that an internal investigation has now been launched.

We believe that those involved in the struggle to stop the incinerator can hold their heads high and be proud to say that they helped ensure the health of future generations in Easter Ross and Sutherland – a region which would undoubtedly have suffered from the dangerous incinerator emissions, tumbling values of agricultural land and domestic property prices, had the application succeeded.

Thank you to all the people who helped win the day – including members of the public who sat so patiently through the seven hour proceedings at the hearing.

On this occasion, the voice of local democracy has prevailed!

Malcolm Harrison, on behalf of Invergordon Community Council.