'Legal doubts' prompt delay to waste public inquiry

The start of a major public inquiry expected to last for months and due to probe issues including the possibility of a massive new waste facility on the outskirts of Chichester has been postponed, amid concerns over 'legal uncertainty'.

By The Newsroom

Published 28th Dec 2005, 09:39 BST

Updated 8th Jun 2018, 03:23 BST

The hearing was planned to open at The Venue, in Chichester and expected to run until about April.

Its subject was West Sussex County Council's new waste local plan, which addresses the potentially controversial issues of waste disposal across the county, with proposals for new waste transfer stations, recycling plants and other facilities.

In Chichester itself, controversy has focused on the idea of a huge new facility at Portfield, next to the A27.

Serious concern has been expressed about the impact on the historic city, as well as surrounding homes and schools, and about the prospect of increased traffic.

Site owners Tarmac have also entered the controversy, with a declaration that they want to build houses in the area, rather than see it earmarked for waste disposal purposes.

Full story in West Sussex Gazette, December 29 2005