DRIVING past the towering cranes at Javelin Park I reminisced about our sitting MP’s stance on the controversial incinerator project back in 2014.

A local newspaper reported: Speaking at a crucial planning inquiry the Tory MP said he objected to the application based on the size and design of the facility, traffic issues and potential noise and odour impacts on the local area.

“I am unconvinced how UBB adequately addresses the planning issues of design, visual impact, bulk and massing in the proposal in front of the inspector and my objection to the application stands on the grounds above,” he said.

The inquiry was being held after waste firm Urbaser Balfour Beatty appealed the decision by Gloucestershire County Council’s planning committee to refuse permission for the controversial facility.

Mr Carmichael was among 30 people giving evidence at the appeal, held at a function room adjacent to the Hallmark Hotel in Matson.

“The proposed design, size and bulk of the building does not take into account the fact it is on the edge of the Cotswolds AONB and is not in keeping with the area,” he said.

“The significant impact on views out of the Cotswolds AONB is clearly a matter of planning consideration.”

Mr Carmichael added that he was concerned about the impact of a large volume of heavy goods vehicles to residential areas, particularly on the B4008, and noise and odour impacts on the local area.

Thus spoke a man of principles.

So, in the meanwhile, have the plans for the incinerator changed? Will it contaminate less?

Will it be less of an eyesore?

Are the access problems to be addressed?

No.

The only changes (a U-turn one could say) have been by Mr Carmichael.

Paul Halas

Stroud