Fighting against the Invergordon Incinerator
December 2012 (updated January 2013)
Following the decision made by the Inspector regarding plans for a rubbish-burning incinerator to be built in Invergordon, Mr Al Fayed said:
"When proposals to build a rubbish burning incinerator in Invergordon were first put forward in 2009, I immediately backed local residents to campaign against it. I know the area well, as it is close to Balnagown, my family's Scottish home of 40 years. During this time we have worked hard to conserve the environment and protect its rare wildlife, and in doing so, have formed strong bonds with the local community.
Invergordon is an area of natural beauty, and its community is made up of many young families. Building an industrial burner here is completely out of character with the area. There will be an increase in the numbers of heavy goods lorries on local roads, with a disastrous knock-on effect on air pollution and tourism, upon which the area relies.
I am thoroughly disappointed with the inspector's decision to go ahead with it. I cannot see how having a rubbish burning incinerator in a residential area can be justified in the 21st century; and I will not stand back and let the bureaucrats push this proposal forward. The local people don't want it, the Highland Council doesn't want it; only the Scottish government, it appears, do.
I am not giving up the fight. I shall explore every means to see what can be done to stop this outrageous onslaught on a beautiful area where families ought to be allowed to live in peace. As Robert the Bruce found, you have to try, try and try again. And I shall."
Find out more
To get involved in the campaign against the incinerator, or for more information about the campaign, visit the ICare Trust website.
Latest news
Scottish Express - Mohamed Al Fayed speaks out saying the First Minister should be protecting the environment, not destroying it. (20 January, 2013)
BBC - Mohamed Al Fayed launches a fresh court challenge to plans for a waste incinerator in Invergordon (11 January, 2013)
Press and Journal - The Highland Council and Mr Al Fayed Appeal Against the Decision (11 January, 2013)
The Herald (Scotland) - Al Fayed challenges incinerator decision (11 January 2013)
Image - courtesy of Mark Moxon.