MP speaks out about landraise

Wealden MP Charles Hendry has again spoken out against the controversial “landraise” method of dealing with rubbish.

He told a debate in Westminster Hall, London, there was a need to be resourceful with waste.

He said: “Waste should be considered more as a resource than as the problem that it is seen as today.

“Our constituents are rightly concerned about ensuring that the amount of wood going to landfill is reduced, ultimately to nothing. We must see waste as a resource and, where it cannot be recycled, we must see how it can be reused, including as an energy source.”

Speaking after the debate he added: “It is essential that we move away from landfill and landraise. I will continue to oppose the proposed landraise sites in Wealden and I am encouraged by the constructive way the county council is responding to the many concerns that have been expressed.”

Huge protests developed after the county council announced it was considering landraise as a way of dealing with waste.

Potential sites included Grisling Common, west of Uckfield, near Piltdown, and at Halland and near Golden Cross.

Landraise is, in effect, dumping rubbish in a heap up to 25 metres high.

It is on the county’s agenda because the landfill site at Beddingham is nearly full and the waste incinerator at Newhaven is still under construction.

The next phase of the county council’s work will look at whether it can reduce or eliminate the need for land disposal of all waste in East Sussex and Brighton & Hove.

The council said: “This will include looking at alternatives to land disposal, which are generally becoming more viable as the cost of land disposal rises.

“As we carry out this investigation we will want to talk to local communities about our evolving thinking, so that your views are taken into account in whatever revised plans we produce next year. We are looking to produce a plan with up to date thinking that is practical and deliverable.”