Stench from tip sparks anger

FED-UP residents have bombarded the Environment Agency with complaints about odours from a controversial tip — despite a complete change of senior management at the site.

The agency logged 13 angry calls at the weekend and 39 the previous weekend about odours seeping from High Moor landfill at Scouthead.

Some householders complain noxious smells are drifting further from the site into communities closer to Oldham.

And angry councillor, Derek Heffernan, said today: “The problems have gone on long enough.

“They really do need to get a grip of the situation. The smell seems to be spreading to other areas, including Waterhead. They have had enough time to sort things out.”

Veolia Environmental Services, the tip operators, has a new manager at the sprawling site and has brought in two new experts to supervise operations.

Tom Spaul, chief operating officer, and Gavin Graveson, managing director of the company’s integrated services, met Bill Darbyshire, the Environment Agency (EA) manager for Greater Manchester.

Mr Darbyshire said: “I am still pressing the operators on several levels and they are spending a considerable amount of money on issues to improve the situation at High Moor.

“Following a number of calls during the weekend, agency officers spent several hours visiting the site and surrounding area.

“Odours were detected and our investigations are ongoing. The EA recognises emissions remain a concern to local residents, and Veolia are committed to continued improvements in the gas management system. “

Currently, the EA is examining sites for additional monitors to check odours.

A Veolia spokesperson said: “Bryan Pinder is now responsible for our nationwide network of landfill sites. He reports to Gavin Graveson and both will continue to focus on the requirement for ongoing progress at High Moor and look forward to working with the EA and local residents.”