Developing suitable methods of treating waste, in acceptable locations, is essential for the environment and for human health and sense of wellbeing. It can also provide a range of ‘green’ business and employment opportunities.
LUC was appointed to assist in the progression of suitable sites, to meet future waste management needs across The Lothian and Borders area.
We provided planning and environmental advice to the Lothian and Borders Waste Management Team in Scotland from 2005-2008, as subconsultants to AEA Technology.
The Lothian and Borders Waste Management Project Team comprised West Lothian, East Lothian, Midlothian, City of Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders Councils. The Team was established in 2003 to deliver necessary residual waste treatment infrastructure for the Councils as a pathfinder project for Scotland. The partner Councils were also members of the Lothian and Borders Waste Strategy Area Group, one of eleven such groups across Scotland former through the National Waste Strategy, to develop and endorse the Area Waste Plan for Lothian and Borders.
LUC’s advice to the Waste Management Team included:
- a review of the site selection process undertaken, including a facilitated discussion workshop- specific advice in relation to a potential site under consideration, including a review of likely planning and environmental constraints to progression of the site and preparation of a draft EIA Scoping Report outlining key environmental issues which would require more detailed consideration.
Midlothian and City of Edinburgh Councils have recently announced their intention to seek planning permission for the site in question, as part of a joint waste treatment project being taken forward by the two Councils, the “Zero Waste Project”.
LUC is delighted to have played a part in progressing this project and thereby assisting practically with implementation of the National Waste Strategy on the ground.
