SERIOUS concerns are being raised that a proposed waste site next to Worcestershire’s police headquarters could severely impact vital emergency services.
A Worcestershire County Council planning committee is due to consider the application on June 30.
The proposed anaerobic digestion facility at Hindlip is recommended for conditional approval despite major concerns consistently raised by Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion, West Mercia Police and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
Their concerns focus on the potential impact on air quality, noise levels, and the deployment of operational and emergency response vehicles. Despite further information being submitted during the planning process, those concerns remain unresolved.
Among the most serious concerns is the potential impact on forensic investigations carried out at police headquarters.
Forensic evidence being accepted in courts relies on strict criteria being met – including around air contamination.
Millions of pounds have been spent making sure West Mercia Police has compliant facilities and equipment at Hindlip to make sure offenders are brought to justice and victims get the service they need.
The proposed new waste site is just metres from West Mercia’s forensic labs.
As part of the planning process, evidence has been submitted that demonstrates severe concern that air contamination from the site would undermine the integrity of forensic evidence used in thousands of cases, including the most serious crimes committed in our communities.
There are also a range of other concerns – for example, these air particles could also affect police dogs, during training, and their ability to detect scents.
PCC John Campion said: “There can be no room for error when it comes to protecting forensic evidence. The integrity of that evidence is fundamental to securing justice for victims and ensuring offenders are held to account.
“I fully recognise the importance of sustainable waste management, but it cannot come at the expense of the police’s ability to carry out investigations. It is completely inappropriate for a site like this to be positioned next to a police headquarters, let alone forensics laboratories.
“We have provided expert evidence that shows the impact of this proposed development. The applicant has not provided enough evidence to show how policing services would be protected from potential contamination.
“The consequences of getting this wrong are simply too great. I hope and expect decision-makers at the Council give careful consideration to the risks that have been identified in this case. We must do what is necessary to safeguard vital emergency services that the public rely on.”
