The Planning Inspectorate has confirmed when Woodhurst residents can expect a decision on whether an incinerator will be built in the village.

In February, an eight day public inquiry into the incinerator plans was held at the Cambridgeshire County Council in Alconbury Weald.

The inquiry came after Envar Composting Ltd, the company behind the incinerator proposal, launched an appeal after Cambridgeshire County Council rejected their planning application.

Throughout the inquiry, People Opposing the Woodhurst Incinerator (POWI), North West Cambridgeshire MP Shailesh Vara and County Councillor Steve Criswell all attended to voice their opposition to the incinerator.

The outcome of the appeal will be determined by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove MP.

On May 21, The Planning Inspectorate confirmed that a decision is due to be issued on, or before, August 20. 

In a letter to Cambridgeshire County Council, the Inspectorate said: "The Inspector’s report has been sent to the Secretary of State for consideration.

"In accordance with Schedule 2 of the above Act (Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004), I am writing to let you know that a decision will be issued on or before 20 August 2024."

Recommended Reading: Woodhurst: Start of public inquiry into Envar incinerator

In a statement issued by POWI, a spokesperson said: "Envar's plans started to emerge in the spring/summer of 2021 - three years ago - as reported by The Hunts Post.

"If it hadn't have been for POWI, there would have been spades in the ground by now.

"Everyday without a hazardous medical waste incinerator in our rural community is a win. 

"We will continue campaigning to stop this plan, which has been soundly rejected by thousands of residents, nearby farmers, businesses, and Cambridgeshire County Council."