South East London Combined Heat and Power (SELCHP)
Lewisham councillors are currently debating the environmental impact of waste incineration and the future of the council's contract with SELCHP, which expires in January 2029.
In November 2026, Lewisham councillors raised concerns about the environmental impact of waste incineration, specifically regarding carbon emissions and air pollution from the South East London Combined Heat and Power (SELCHP) plant. Councillor Kate Anderson questioned the overlap between the council's waste strategy and its climate goals.
These discussions come as the council's contract with SELCHP, its incineration provider, is due to expire on 1 January 2029. A report presented by Wendy Nicholas highlighted the council's efforts to improve waste and recycling performance and transition towards a circular economy.
SELCHP is a company involved in waste incineration and heat power generation, operating a plant in New Cross. It holds a contract with Lewisham Council for waste disposal.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council's contract with its incineration provider is due to expire on 1 January 2029. Source
- In November 2026, Lewisham councillors raised concerns about the environmental impact of incineration, including carbon emissions and air pollution. Source
- Councillor Kate Anderson questioned the air pollution aspects on the local community and natural environment. Source
- Wendy Nicholas presented a report on the council's waste and recycling performance and transition to a circular economy. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 6 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.