BASILDON councillors and local residents have welcomed the Planning Inspectorate's decision to dismiss an appeal to build a waste incinerator in Pitsea.

The proposal, submitted by Clearaway Ltd for a £50 million incinerator at the Burnt Mills site, faced strong and sustained opposition from both the council and the community. More than 2,500 residents signed a petition against the development, citing concerns over public health, pollution, and long-term environmental damage.

Essex County Council's Development and Regulation Committee originally rejected the application in May 2024. The applicant later lodged an appeal, which was the subject of a public inquiry.

Cllr Emma Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Partnerships, Performance & Engagement, who spoke at the appeal hearing, praised the outcome:

"This is wonderful news and a huge win for the people of Pitsea and Basildon as a whole. After years of campaigning and working hand in hand with residents, we have defeated the Clearaway Pitsea incinerator plan.

"From the outset, we believed the concerns raised by residents were legitimate and serious. The negative impact this proposal would have had on the surrounding area -and beyond - was unacceptable.

"My thanks go to everyone who played a part in this result: councillors, campaigners, and residents who signed petitions, spoke out, and gave evidence at the hearing. This is what happens when a community unites around a common cause."

The decision marks a significant milestone in the long-running campaign against the incinerator and reinforces the council's commitment to putting residents' wellbeing and environmental sustainability at the heart of local planning decisions.