What is the status of the Westbury waste-to-energy incinerator project?

The initial construction work on the controversial Westbury waste-to-energy incinerator has started, with the facility expected to be completed by the end of 2028.

How are Westbury residents responding to the incinerator project?

Westbury residents, including the town council and local MP, have waged a campaign against the incinerator due to concerns over issues like emissions and proximity to housing. The town council is now focused on closely monitoring air quality in the area.

What is the role of the Westbury Town Council in relation to the incinerator?

The Westbury Town Council has paid for a consultant to advise on the best locations for air quality monitors in the town, and has already installed these monitors. This is to establish a baseline of air quality before the incinerator becomes operational.

Home / Environment / Westbury Residents Brace for Construction of Divisive Waste-to-Energy Plant

Westbury Residents Brace for Construction of Divisive Waste-to-Energy Plant

5 Nov

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Summary

Initial construction work has started on controversial waste-to-energy incinerator
Locals concerned about emissions and proximity to housing
Town council installing air quality monitors to establish baseline

Westbury Residents Brace for Construction of Divisive Waste-to-Energy Plant

As of November 5th, 2025, initial construction work has commenced on a controversial waste-to-energy incinerator site in Westbury, Wiltshire. The project, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2028, was granted planning permission by the government in 2023 after years of protests from local councils and residents.

The company behind the incinerator, Northacre Renewable Energy Ltd (NREL), claims the facility will generate electricity and provide a "safe, sustainable solution for non-recyclable waste." However, locals remain concerned about issues such as air emissions and the incinerator's proximity to housing.

In response, the Westbury Town Council has shifted its focus to closely monitoring air quality in the area. The council has already installed air quality monitors and hired a consultant to advise on the best locations, establishing a baseline to compare against once the incinerator becomes operational.