Demolition of 'worst incinerator in England'

Activists spelt out their objection (Greenpeace picture)

A Sheffield incinerator named by Greenpeace as the worst in England for breaking pollution laws is to be demolished.

Onyx UK, who take over the city council's waste management services in August, have agreed to close down the Bernard Road plant.

Last month, a team of Greenpeace protestors scaled the incinerator's 75-metre chimney, keeping it out of action for several days.

Onyx plan to replace it with a more environmentally friendly model, while campaigners are calling for a recycling and composting scheme.

Protestors chained themselves to cranes

Citing a report based on data from Environment Agency pollution registers, Greenpeace said the plant has "an appaling criminal record."

It provides heat and power to thousands of homes in the city.

Toxics campaigner, Miranda Holmes, said: "The incinerator has been bombarding people and the environment with toxic chemicals for far too long.

'Clean technology' needed

"This is a great day for the people of Sheffield."

Greenpeace want to see modern recyling methods in the city, instead of a new incinerator.

Ms Holmes continued: "What Sheffield needs now is a modern, clean recyling and composting scheme.

"That will not only create jobs but avoid the risks to people's health and environment from burning rubbish."