THE Rational Alternative waste scheme is deeply flawed, according to Public Services board member Deputy Tony Spruce.

He was one of several States members at a presentation last night by businessman Rupert Dorey (pictured), who is leading a group of environmentalists opposed to Public Services Department plans for a solid-waste plant.

Mr Dorey faced a rigorous round of questioning as deputies raised their doubts about his proposals, which include two micro-incinerators that would have a capacity of 22,000 tonnes per year – compared with PSD’s proposed plant which could deal with up to 54,000 tonnes.

It is claimed that the Rational Alternative plan would cost around £180m. less than PSD’s over the 25-year lifetime of the plant.

It would also cost just £19m. to build rather than the £93m.-plus quoted by preferred tenderer Suez.

Deputy Spruce said he found the presentation interesting but deeply flawed – particularly the section on cost and on the capacity of the proposal to deal with the waste stream currently created in Guernsey.

‘I believe the proposal is well intentioned but it does not in any way represent an all-encompassing solution for the island.’