Terra Firma Vice Chairman, Douglas Armstrong QC, successfully represented local Interest Group Portobello Opposes New Garbage Station (Pongs) at a Public Local Inquiry regarding an appeal by waste management company Viridor for reconsideration of a giant waste transfer facility in Portobello.  The plans were originally rejected by Edinburgh Council in 2008 and the decision was upheld by the Scottish Government’s Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals (DPEA). Alasdair Burnet, also of Terra Firma Chambers, represented Edinburgh Council at the Inquiry.

The DPEA concluded that the development would have damaged the character and appearance of the Portobello conservation area, including the setting of listed buildings. The Reporters stated that they found it ‘difficult to conclude that there is an explicit need in the public interest for a stand alone transfer station in this location and of the scale proposed’.

The decision follows a two-year campaign by community groups and was greeted with delight by local residents and campaigners.  For further information, please click here.