Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Consett Energy from Waste Plant

08 March 2022 · 5 other contributors

Opened by Richard Holden Con Basildon and Billericay

EnergyEnvironment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Richard Holden raised concerns about consett energy from waste plant in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Mr Holden reflects on the community's efforts to reject a local waste to energy facility in Consett.
  • He notes that over 95% of survey respondents are opposed to the proposed incinerator.
  • The minister discussed the Government's commitment to sustainability and a circular economy.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Richard Holden Con Basildon and Billericay

Mr Holden reflects on the community's efforts to reject a local waste to energy facility in Consett. He acknowledges that while MPs have no specific powers regarding local planning permissions, the overwhelming opposition from constituents against the proposed plant is significant. The MP highlights that over 95% of survey respondents are opposed to the incinerator and supports the Government’s policy on reduce, reuse, recycle. Mr Holden calls for the developer to withdraw their appeal and respect democratic decisions.

Other contributors (5)
  • Richard Holden Con Basildon and Billericay

    Mr Holden emphasises that his constituents are in line with Government policy on reducing carbon emissions, pushing forward sensible environmental changes such as animal welfare legislation. He argues against the need for new incineration facilities as it contradicts the broader narrative of waste reduction year on year.

  • Stuart Andrew Con Daventry

    Echoed the opening comments about President Zelensky's address and congratulated Mr Holden for securing this debate. Noted that an appeal against Durham County Council’s refusal of planning permission has been lodged with the Planning Inspectorate. Emphasised principles underpinning waste planning, highlighting a sequential approach prioritising prevention, reuse and recycling over energy recovery or disposal to landfill. Mentioned Government's commitment to managing residual waste sustainably and moving towards a circular economy. Discussed community engagement in planning applications and the importance of local MPs mobilising constituents for new developments. Stated that incineration accounted for CO2-equivalent greenhouse gas emissions but considered better than landfill regarding environmental impact.

  • Nigel Evans

    Acknowledged President Zelensky’s address as historic and emotional, expressing solidarity with Ukraine. Concluded the debate.

  • Volodymyr Zelensky Ukraine

    President Zelensky addressed the House of Commons about the situation in Ukraine, detailing the 13 days of war since Russia's invasion. He described the courage and fortitude displayed by Ukrainians despite attacks on cities, hospitals, children, and military personnel. He called for increased sanctions against Russia, recognition of it as a terrorist state, and safety for Ukrainian skies.

  • Lindsay Hoyle Speaker Chorley

    The Speaker welcomed President Zelensky to address the House of Commons regarding the situation in Ukraine. He thanked Mr Zelensky for his powerful speech and expressed solidarity with Ukrainians, recognising their courage and fortitude.

Government Response

Government Minister

Discussed waste planning principles, Government’s commitment to sustainability and circular economy, regulatory framework for energy from waste plants, community engagement in planning decisions.

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