Incinerator latest - planning permission refused

Bridgend, Gannochy & Kinnoull Community Council is pleased with the decision to refuse planning permission for the chemicals plant in the centre of Perth. It is the right decision on the day and we recognise the significant role played, amongst others, by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and Perth & Kinross Council's Environmental Health Manager in compiling a detailed and forceful assessment of the application's shortcomings.

We must not forget, however, that it has cost so much time, money and anguish. There has been substantial unnecessary cost, both in time and money, for Perth & Kinross Council and for the applicant as we have undergone two planning applications and an appeal. We have experienced unnecessary anguish to so many residents, organisations and businesses in Perth as they have fought against a situation which arose from Perth & Kinross Council's mistakes, mistakes which of course should have been rectified many years ago.

Let's remember also that we may still not be finished as Grundon will no doubt consider another appeal.

While congratulating Perth & Kinross Council on their decision we sincerely hope that they will learn significant lessons from this whole sorry affair and that we shall see significant improvements in the performance of their planning function.