Protestors Unite to Protest the Incinerator at Portland Port
Portland, UK
The protests were a direct result of concerns over the Powerfuel Portland incinerator. Despite owning Langham Wines, a major local business, the family has stated that Langham Wines has “very little to do with” Portland Port, the location of the incinerator project. The protesters held a staged event during the Langham Wines Summer Fayre, handing out leaflets with informative details about the incinerator to visitors. They also displayed spooky wine labels, including a ‘Portland Port Pollution’ bottle and a ‘Burning Rubbish’, 2025 vintage. These eye-catching labels aimed to highlight the negative environmental impact of the project, despite the port’s intention to be a part of the renewable energy revolution by supporting offshore wind opportunities. Chanting and Confrontation
As the protesters were asked to leave by staff, they stood their ground, chanting the slogan “Langham, Langham, hear us say, incinerator no way.” This vocal protest drew the attention of the surrounding area to the seriousness of their cause. Opposition to the Incinerator
The Stop Portland Incinerator Campaign spokesperson, Jill Johnstone, explained that the strong community opposition to the incinerator is a testament to the local residents’ deep-seated concerns over the project’s environmental impact. Leaflet Details
A detailed leaflet handed out to people at the fayre outlined the following points:
- The Langham Group owns Langham Wines and Portland Port, despite claiming to have “very little to do with” the Portland Port.
- The Portland Port incinerator would contribute to air pollution and the destruction of habitats.
- The project is being driven by the Langham family, who would potentially benefit financially from the incinerator’s construction.
Response from Langham Wine Ltd
Managing director Justin Langham stated that the protesters were asked to leave due to noise complaints, and that he had limited interaction with the group. Alternative Solutions
Justin Langham emphasized the importance of locally controlled incineration, stating that it is the responsible solution to waste management. Support for Langham Wines
Despite the protests, Langham Wine Ltd reported an increase in customers coming from the Portland and Weymouth area, indicating that the company’s efforts to produce high-quality wines have resonated with the local community. Appeal and Rally
The Stop Portland Incinerator Campaign plans to organize a large-scale rally in Weymouth in early August, aiming to galvanize public opinion against the incinerator. The project is now set to move forward, but the campaigners remain optimistic about the possibility of the High Court’s decision being overturned, and the possibility of the incinerator being rejected in the appeal process.
news is a contributor at BinkWines. We are committed to providing well-researched, accurate, and valuable content to our readers.
