Danger asbestos sheets dumped

Sheets of asbestos dumped in the River Medlock

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Fly-tippers have put children and the environment in danger by dumping potentially deadly asbestos across beauty spots in Oldham.

Residents have been warned to look out for the hazardous material and report it immediately after two cases in the past few weeks.

Fifteen sheets of asbestos were dumped in the River Medlock in Lees and yesterday the remains of a garage were found off Huddersfield Road, near Culvert Street, Waterhead.

Oldham Council has cleared up the eyesore waste after being alerted by the public and blasted those responsible.

Breathing in high levels of asbestos fibres can increase the chances of suffering potentially fatal diseases, such as mesothelioma or lung cancer.

Councillor Mark Alcock, cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, said: “It is vital that asbestos waste is disposed of correctly by the properly trained and accredited disposal companies.

“Last year, Oldham Council spent £5,000 disposing of fly-tipped asbestos in the borough. This is money which could be far better spent in any number of other areas of benefit to local citizens.

“Dumping asbestos is a criminal offence and anyone caught doing so is liable to prosecution, with fines of up to £50,000 or five years imprisonment.

“And to do it in a popular public area such as the Medlock Valley is irresponsible and damages the local environment and is a hazard to the people, especially the young ones who use this area for recreation.

“I can assure citizens that in any case of fly-tipping council enforcement officers do their utmost to track down and prosecute who is responsible and this case is no different.

“If you are having any work done to your home or business, it is your responsibility to ensure that asbestos waste is disposed of correctly otherwise you can face action as well.”

Anyone who finds dumped asbestos or any other fly-tipped waste is urged to call the council immediately on 0161-770 6644.