Demonstrators from Basildon joined forces with other protesters to oppose the use of incinerators to get rid of waste in Essex.

More than 20 campaigners with banners and placards backed an option as an alternative to the county's waste consultation which says no to incineration.

Co-ordinated by Paula Whitney, of Essex Friends of the Earth, the event took place outside County Hall in Chelmsford. It is feared that if built, one of the incinerators for the county could be built in Courtauld Road, Basildon.

County councillor Graham Pooley (Chelmsford) was there supporting the cause after spearheading the launch of a "no-incineration" alternative for the Essex War on Waste.

He said: "We are simply putting into the public domain the option which treats rubbish not as a threat."

Ms Whitney said: "We are asking all of the districts and parish councils to reject the six options and support an option seven, which has no incinerators, no contract longer than ten years, 60 per cent recycling and composting by 2007 and 70 per cent by 2012.

"It will be far cheaper."

Public consultation on the issue runs until the end of November and asks members of the public to tick two options in a War On Waste leaflet, available from the county's libraries.

A spokesman for Essex County Council said: "It is the right of any organisation to get together and hold a demonstration in support of its firm beliefs.

"But Essex County Council is just a player in the waste strategy. It involves 14 other Essex councils."

Published Tuesday November 5, 2002

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