Tip work enters its final phase

THE operator of the controversial High Moor tip does not have plans to extend the life of the site beyond its current planning agreement, it is has been revealed.

The news comes in the wake of an announcement earlier this week that a consultation document had identified land adjoining the tip’s boundary at Scouthead as a “potentially suitable” site for more landfill operations.

But a spokesman for the tip operators, Veolia Environment Services, said: “Work has started on the final waste cell at High Moor.

All quarrying activity has now stopped, although some additional stone will be removed during the development of the final waste cell.

“The preparation work currently underway could possibly result in an earlier than anticipated closure date.”

The spokesman added: “We will continue with plans to restore the area and maintain the site in excellent condition after its closure date.”

Meantime, Veolia are committed to take positive action working with the local residents’ action group to address their concerns.

A former RAF squadron leader, Robert Knotts, who lives at Austerlands, has been appointed as a “sleeping policeman” to attend the site and work alongside the Veolia team.

After his first site meeting, Mr Knotts, a military logistics expert and former university lecturer, said: “I have been given access to all aspects of the landfill workings.

“They have been very open about their operations and I will ensure I work with them to take on residents concerns.”

Veolia is also planning a dedicated High Moor web site, with the residents group, which will go live shortly. Monthly updates on the site’s performance and dates of forthcoming maintenance activities will be posted.

And Veolia has launched a 24-hour helpline (0800 048 2704).

Anti-tip campaigner, Diane Bolan, whose farm backs on to the site, said: “This is good news.”

The consultation document, highlighting High Moor’s additional waste potential possibilities, was released by the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA).

The document is for local authorities to decide planning applications for waste management facilities.

It also identifies a possible site at a former colliery at Coal Pit Lane, Failsworth.

Residents can see them online at: www.gmwastedpd.co.uk. Alternatively, they can be viewed at all libraries.