Revamped quarry plan will create ‘up to 40 jobs’

THE Royton-based company behind plans to use Birks Quarry for landfill has said that the site will create up to 40 full-time jobs should it get the go-ahead.

The Chronicle reported yesterday how Opengoal Ltd had applied to the Environment Agency for a permit to tip demolition waste at the site.

The company, which is heavily involved with Oldham’s Metrolink project, says it has made alterations to plans as part of the new application.

An initial bid for a permit was turned down in 2009, with problems of mud possibly being turfed on to Huddersfield Road cited as an issue.

A company spokesman has revealed that under the new plans washing facilities to hose down wagons will be moved to make sure the problem is alleviated.

Staff at the company, which is part of the Connell Group, have reassured locals close to site on the Lees/Austerlands border that this is a new approach.

The spokesman said: “Connell Group takes its social and environmental responsibilities extremely seriously.

“The quarry will generate between 35 and 40 full-time positions, while at the same time further securing existing jobs within the Connell organisation.

“The company has always been mindful of the views of the local residents and numerous changes have been made in the planning process to accommodate and alleviate these concerns.”

Opponents have already said that they will reform the Birks Quarry Action Group to oppose the plans.

Currently in the initial stages of assessment, the Environment Agency has confirmed that public consultation on the application is expected to take place in July.