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Newbury protestors pledge to clean up oil spill
26 February 1996
Campaigners against the proposed Newbury bypass have today written to the Highways Agency calling for a temporary halt to work in return for the protesters helping out on the Sea Empress oil spill. The Third Battle of Newbury office pledged to mobilise hundreds of people (including some qualified conservationists) to help in the clean-up on the Welsh coast if they can be relieved of their role in protecting the country side.
All members of the Third Battle Group have become increasingly alarmed at the environmental disaster caused by the spilling of tens of thousands of tonnes of oil near to protected beaches. The campaigners are currently protecting up to 10,000 mature trees from being felled in the path of the proposed Newbury by-pass.
The Third Battle of Newbury has asked for a commitment from the Highways Agency for the work to stop "for a period of no less than ten working days , commencing as soon as possible, and no later than this week."
Martin Healer of the Third Battle of Newbury group said:
"It's time for us all to work together to defend our natural heritage. We are calling on the Highways Agency to halt work and allow us to help clean up the disastrous mess that the Sea Empress has left behind."
Friends of the Earth confirmed the need for help at the rocky shorelines of the Bristol Channel, in particular in the rescue of oiled sea-birds and other affected wild-life.
Gordon James of Friends of the Earth Cymru said:
"The Highways Agency should at least back off to allow committed environmentalists to help out with this pollution disaster."
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Sep 2008
