Fresh stink over High Moor plans

A controversial landfill site could be extended to accommodate more waste, shocked anti-tip campaigners learned today.

The revelation — in a 74-page public consultation document — names High Moor in Scouthead as one of the most “potentially suitable” sites in Greater Manchester for disposing “residual waste” — smelly rubbish left over from recycling.

The tip’s current boundary could be moved to incorporate another section of land which, in turn, would extend High Moor’s working life.

The announcement was greeted with disbelief and anger by neighbouring residents and businesses who, backed by councillors, are demanding the existing tip’s closure because of noxious smells and flies.

Phil Woolas, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, said: “Residents want High Moor to close. They do not want its life extending in any way.”

The report also highlights a potential site for waste disposal at a former colliery off Coal Pit Lane, Limeside. The site currently has no existing permitted capacity.

Councillor Mark Alcock, Cabinet member for the environment and infrastructure, said: “As a council, and a community, we have major concerns about the planned developments at High Moor and Coal Pit Lane.

“There is already a great deal of worry from residents who live near High Moor. Numerous complaints have been lodged regarding the smell coming from the existing site.

“We feel that any potential extension here could dramatically increase both the noise and smell from the site.

“We are also concerned that the planned extension will require excavation of 1.8 million cubic metres of minerals, something that does not have planning permission and would need to be applied for.”

The 10 authorities which make up the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA)