Mystery of the dumped toxic waste drums

Drums filled with a flammable, cancer-causing chemical have been dumped on an Oldham street — and council taxpayers will foot the bill to have them removed.

Environmental health staff spotted the toxic waste in Green Street, off Manchester Street, and removed them before they were tampered with.

Now the authority is out to find whoever was responsible for fly-tipping the gunwash — a toxic solvent used for cleaning paint-spray equipment.

The council is asking the public to help to track down whoever dumped the pallet containing a dozen 25-litre drums on or around Tuesday, November 10.

Councillor Mark Alcock, Cabinet member for the environment and infrastructure, said: “This is a criminal act and will be vigorously pursued by the council.

“Officers are working to trace the suppliers and are checking all available CCTV in the area for any leads. If anyone has any information about where these containers have come from they should call the council on 0161-770 6644 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

“However, in the short term, it means we are left with a bill to employ specialist contractors to dispose of it safely. The advice on what you can do is clear. If you see anyone depositing drums like this, let either the council or the Environment Agency know, quoting vehicle registrations where possible.”