by Neil Mathers
Having written to Sir Terry Leahy a number of times, I had hoped the new report might provide acceptable answers, but instead I find only passing comment and wild assertions. To me the report is completely inadequate, and addresses not one of my concerns. For examples the report says:
• “the use of IBAA for bulk fill purposes is legal in all respects.” There is no evidence it is legal.
• “the IBAA is unequivocally typical of material produced nationally within the UK.” There is no
evidence IBAA at Gerrards Cross is typical. Lead and TOC levels are much higher than normal.
• “measures to reduce airborne dust during future construction work.” But it does not say why such
proposed measures were missing from the moment IBAA was first brought to site in early 2005.
• “the project was properly covered by the necessary planning development control procedures . . .”
There is no evidence. Ernest Green’s 1997 Environmental Report in support of Tesco’s original
application does not mention IBAA, and I’m unaware of later authorization. Any later consent (if any) should include conditions to limit the quantity of IBAA, its use on site, its depth, site testing and quality control procedures, regular sampling, physical and chemical testing etc.
• “the EA and government sponsored Waste Recycling Action Programme have worked together.”
There is no further information. Whilst the construction industry is guided by the WRAP Quality
Protocol, even today IBAA is not an acceptable inert waste, see page 10.
• “IBAA was delivered to the site during late 2004 by HGVs . . .” But there is no mention that in April
2005 IBAA was delivered to site by various trucks, whilst parallel deliveries were being made by train.
What was on those trucks, where did it come from, and is that material safe?
• “The IBAA material was sourced from the Edmonton production facility and from Onyx/Hanson
Rainham facility” Hanson press release (Autumn 2004) does not mention Edmonton. And there is no rail siding at Rainham, so trains arriving at Gerrards Cross were loaded elsewhere. With what?
• “there will be no additional importation of IBAA for