If the new House chooses a waste-disposal technology that does not fit in with the outline planning brief for Longue Hougue, a planning inquiry might be needed. (Picture by Daniel Guerin, 0571632)

BUILDING a waste plant could be delayed by another year if the States plumps for new technology.

Outgoing Public Services minister Bill Bell has written to all new members to update them on the progress so far.  Four years ago the States stalled plans to build an incinerator. Although that remains an option, other heat-treatment processes are also in the running.

Deputy Bell said the intention was to submit an output-based tender specification to the July States meeting. If everything from that point goes well and is approved, it could be possible for a contractor to start work in late 2009. But there could be another delay.

‘Regrettably, there is a possibility that a planning inquiry may be necessary if the chosen technology does not fall within the parameters set out in the outline planning brief for Longue Hougue,’ said Deputy Bell.