Environmental groups claimed they were being forced out of consultations for plans that could see a new incinerator built – possibly near Mitcham Common.

Protestors gathered outside Merton Civic Centre on Tuesday morning, where a public meeting was held to discuss the south London development plan document (DPD).

Brian Cook, a senior government planning inspector, is leading the public hearing which is looking at the viability of a new waste management plant in one of several possible sites across Croydon, Merton, Kingston and Sutton.

But campaign group Stop The Incinerator said the four councils, through the South London Waste Plan, were set to build a waste-burning incinerator, with a site in Beddington Lane, next to Mitcham Common, most likely to be selected.

Shasha Khan, the group’s secretary, said: “The inspector has the power to throw out the South London Waste Plan.

“However, the omens are not good when worried residents are not being asked to make oral submissions.

“Inspector Cook could reassure campaigners and allow all groups to contribute to the plan but instead these public hearings have the feel of a kangaroo court.

“One just has to see the number of waste contractors scheduled to speak.”

The DPD contains policies to help form planning applications for any rubbish disposal centre, while safeguarding existing sites.

But the most controversial detail is plans to build a new incinerator, with the DPD addressing which sites might be suitable for the waste burner.

The meeting, due to last a week, tests the legal compliance of the plan, as well as its “soundness” – whether it is justified and effective.

Representations will be made from major waste-disposal companies such as Viridor, Sita UK, Sterecycle, and Cappagh.

A spokesman for the South London Waste Partnership said it was the responsibility of the planning inspector to decide who made representations at the meeting.

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