Busloads of people expected at protest

2:15pm Thursday 7th June 2007

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COACHLOADS of people could descend on Worcester's County Hall to protest about controversial plans to build a recycling plant near their homes.

Campaigners against the idea of putting a centre capable of handling 105,000 tons of material annually in Norton, near Worcester, are so convinced about the strength of opposition to the scheme they have arranged for three buses to take people to a council meeting.

As reported by the Worcester News, a special meeting has been set for 10am on Tuesday, June 12, to allow councillors to discuss the application by Mercian Waste Services.

The plan to handle material from homes in Worcestershire and Herefordshire at a centre in Woodbury Lane will be the only item on the agenda.

It has already been deferred three times after both council officers and the applicant asked for more time.

The J7-Waste Action Group set up by Norton residents to oppose the plan have arranged for the buses, provided by a local company, to leave Norton Parish Hall, Littleworth, at 9am and return to the village afterwards.

The group has waged a well-organised campaign against the plan, saying it will cause traffic chaos and problems for road safety, health and the environment.

Members have put together a 200-page objection document which has been handed to Worcestershire County Council's planning and regulatory committee and organised leaflet drops informing local residents about the meeting and petitions. Norton-juxta-Kempsey Parish Council has also agreed to pay £30,000 towards costs to mount a legal challenge if the plan is approved.

A spokesman from Worcestershire County Council said the meeting would be held in the council chamber ,which could hold up to 200 people including the committee. A spokesman for the coach company declined to comment.

Anyone interested in booking a seat on the coaches should ring 07812 339 802.