Lewes District Council has confirmed a pause on the current plans for a food waste transfer facility in Newhaven. The decision follows extensive input from local residents through a recent community meeting, emails, and letters.
Councillor Wendy Maples, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Wellbeing, highlighted the importance of community involvement in such significant decisions. “It’s always my belief that we can only arrive at decisions of this importance by taking people with us and that means listening carefully to what they say,” she said. “Having heard local people, read the comments and listened to opinions that have been shared with me, it’s clear that the right decision is to put a pause on the proposals.”
Despite this pause, the council remains committed to enhancing food waste services across the district in a manner that aligns with sustainability goals aimed at reducing emissions. Councillors emphasize the need to balance these objectives with resident feedback.
Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, reiterated the council’s dedication to community consultation. “Consulting with residents and taking account of their views is central to what this council is all about,” she stated. “We have listened and read all the feedback and it’s clear more work is needed before anything can proceed.”
Future proposals regarding the district’s food waste management will undergo public consultation to ensure decisions reflect the community’s perspectives and needs.
