Waste management service proposes waste transfer facility near Warnham

Britaniacrest have applied for permission to convert current buildings at the former Wealden Brickworks site off Langhurstwood Road to allow them to recycle commercial, industrial, and domestic waste.

Under the proposal the existing empty buildings would be upgraded and reclad, with parking for up to 25-30 HGVs.

It would be on the same site as Biffa’s mechanical biological treatment centre which converts organic waste, such as garden refuse or foodstuffs, into a reusable compost-like substance under a 25-year contract signed with West Sussex County Council.

However after discussing proposals last Thursday members of North Horsham Parish Council’s Planning, Environment, and Transport Committee agreed to defer the item to its next meeting to gain more information about the application before submitting a consultation response.

This decision came after several parish councillors felt it was unclear what operations on site would actually entail.

It was also agreed to ask Britaniacrest, who are based in Hookwood near Horley, if they would like to give a short presentation to parish councillors outlining their scheme.

Chairman of the committee Ray Turner said: “I think that’s a sensible way forward. This does affect everybody, all the wards, and I think we need to have a special meeting or include it in the special meeting.”

Parish councillor Belinda Walters added: “My concern is the extra traffic. They say it’s within current levels but the current levels are exceeding people’s expectations.

“It’s an accident waiting to happen.”

Tony Rickett added: “They [Britaniacrest] need to come down and explain what it is they are planning down there.”

As part of its planning application Britaniacrest concludes: “It is considered that the proposed development would provide a positive contribution to waste management in West Sussex.