Incinerator protest

CAMPAIGNERS opposed to the construction of an incinerator in Hatfield donned surgical masks to raise public awareness of the health risks of burning waste.

Around 20 residents and borough councillors covered their faces during the demonstration, which took place at the farmers’ market in Hatfield town centre on Saturday.

The event was organised to protest against the county council’s plans to build a £220m, 270,000-tonne incinerator at New Barnfield in Travellers Lane.

Organiser Mike Hobday, the chairman of campaign group Action Hatfield, said: “Local residents are right to be worried about the pollution that they could face if the county council has its way and builds a massive incinerator at New Barnfield.

“150 extra lorries a day travelling along local roads will certainly produce lots of unnecessary pollution and it’s still not clear how much pollution will come out of the incinerator chimney.

“Pollution has known health risks, increasing levels of asthma and other respiratory diseases. Local residents simply do not want a waste incinerator in the town.”

Mr Hobday, who is also the Labour Party parliamentary candidate for Welwyn Hatfield, added: “The tragedy is that the incinerator is entirely unnecessary.

“Recycling levels are increasing every year and it’s doubtful that there will be enough waste left in 30 years’ time to feed a 270,000-tonne contract.”

He added: “It’s shameful that the county council is still refusing to talk to local residents about their concerns.”