Waste problem still exists at defunct tip

A COMMUNITY watchdog is to meet a giant waste company to discuss the future of Oldham’s most controversial landfill site.

The Chronicle exclusively revealed that tipping operations had ceased at sprawling High Moor site in Scouthead on December 31.

Now Robert Knotts, the community’s “sleeping policeman”, is to have a detailed meeting with Veolia Environmental Services (VES) management in preparation for a further meeting with locals.

The move comes after questions were asked about leachate from rainwater penetrating the ground.

Parish councillor Mr Knotts, from Austerlands, said: “Leachate will continue to exist and tankers will continue to arrive on site to extract it.

“Currently, with heavy rain experienced this month, 10 tanker loads a day are extracted. The average daily requirement is five to six.”

Though tipping operations have ceased, the landfill will produce gas for more than 30 years. This will power engines that drive electricity generators. The site will be shaped, capped and soiled over the next two years.