After careful consideration of the current situation regarding waste disposal
in West Sussex, Cory Environmental has decided not to proceed with its planning
application for a landfill site at Laybrook Brickworks Quarry.
John Boldon, Director of Planning and Estates for Cory, stated: “Cory
Environmental has been carefully reviewing the landfill proposals at Laybrook in
the context of its other development opportunities nationally. The decision to
withdraw the planning application has been taken in the light of this review and
after having regard to diminishing Government support for landfill. At a
national level there are increasing pressures to move away from the disposal of
waste by landfill to the management of waste by other means. In recognising this
change many counties are faced with a dilemma as to how best to deal with their
waste. This is certainly the case in West Sussex where there is a desire to move
waste away from landfill, but the County Council’s own estimates show a
shortfall in capacity to deal with residual waste for many years to come.”
John
continued: “West Sussex County Council is currently addressing the fact that it
does not have a cohesive and supported policy framework for waste management in
the County. This is to be achieved through the preparation of its Waste
Development Framework. In such a circumstance Cory has decided to redirect its
resources into considering the best strategic use of the Laybrook site in the
context of emerging policy, both locally and nationally, rather than pursuing
the current proposal for a 21 year landfill. With this in mind, the company
plans to work with the County Council to see how best it can assist in meeting
its objectives for new facilities.”
Malcolm Ward, Chief Executive of Cory
Environmental, further commented: “Cory has extensive experience of constructing
and operating a range of recycling and waste management facilities, providing
essential services to local authorities and businesses across the UK. We are a
long established company whose success is founded on being responsive to
changing circumstances. This is reflected in our stance at Laybrook. Whilst we
will not pursue the proposed 21 year landfill scheme, West Sussex will remain a
vital area for us to consider opportunities for new waste management
infrastructure. I feel that this will be in the best interests of all
concerned.”
