Extinction Rebellion (XR) Wimborne activists have been out and about raising awareness of a fast-approaching deadline that could decide the fate of the proposed Canford incinerator. They have been talking to residents about the six-mile toxic plume which could be heading their way and singing irreverent ‘incinerator songs’.
MVV Environment has appealed BCP Council’s refusal to allow a huge waste incinerator on Canford Heath. The Planning Inspectorate has set 12 February 2026 as the deadline for submission of comments and objections in order to become ‘interested parties’ in the inquiry.
The potential harm from the proposed huge waste incinerator has been explained in several earlier articles, particularly this one that showed how far the toxic plume will reach if it is allowed to go ahead.
Joanna Bury, coordinator of XR Wimborne said:
“Ask your Dorset or BCP councillor and your MP to represent your views at the inquiry. If your representatives don’t write to the Planning Inspectorate by 12 February, 2026, local voices will be sidelined.”
Rosemary Lunt, local activist, said:
“The reaction we’re getting is disbelief. People keep asking how something so vast, polluting and long lasting could even be considered for green belt land next to homes, schools and internationally protected heathland.”
The proposed incinerator would burn up to 260,000 tonnes of waste every year, 24 hours a day, for 40 years. Campaigners warn it would undermine recycling, lock BCP council into long term waste contracts, increase traffic on Magna Road, emit climate destroying greenhouse gases, damage heritage landscapes and emit toxic pollutants including dioxins and ultra fine particles. Scientific evidence shows these emissions pose particular risks to children, older people and women’s reproductive health.
On 12 September, 2024 Historic England confirmed the necessary safeguards for landscapes and heritage assets had not been adequately addressed by MVV. BCP Council refused the application in June 2025, citing harm to the green belt, landscape and heritage assets, namely the many historic structures in the Canford area. The enormous chimney – almost as high as the spire of Salisbury Cathedral – would be visible from Kingston Lacy and Badbury Rings.
With a public inquiry due to begin in June, campaigners are urging residents to act now. Extinction Rebellion Wimborne says their songs may be lighthearted, but the message is serious: this decision will shape Dorset’s environment, health and waste future for decades to come.
You can submit comments to the Planning Inspectorate before 12 February 2026: there is a link to an autogenerated email to your councillor here.
Or write to:
The Planning Inspectorate
Temple Quay House
2 The Square
Bristol
BS1 6PN
Quoting appeal reference 6002440
Further information:
- XRW’s Canford Incinerator FAQs (regularly updated)
- Magwatch need funds to employ a barrister – please donate.
