Recycling firm eyes up takeover of Bonnybridge tip
West Carron landfill which has been at the centre of controversy
The future of a controversial landfill site could soon be settled.
A Bonnybridge-based recycling company has expressed interest in taking over operations at West Carron.
If Central Demolition becomes the new operator it would ease a major headache for Falkirk Council and SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) – and make life a lot sweeter for residents living nearby.
West Carron has been a contentious issue for a number of years with locals claiming that the stench from the site was unbearable, while the noise of vehicles depositing waste made their life a misery.
In August, The Falkirk Herald revealed there were fears that the site could be abandoned, leaving a complicated “legal minefield” behind over who would be responsible for remediating the site – and who would foot the bill.
But on Wednesday it was revealed that Central Demolition had held talks with the council and SEPA to discuss their proposals.
SEPA has confirmed that they have given the prospective operator details of the legal and technical requirements for running the site, as well as requirements to be met to successfully transfer the landfill permit.
Details of the potential takeover were revealed when the council’s planning committee met yesterday.
Members agreed not to pursue any planning enforcement for the moment to allow talks to continue.
But Councillor David Alexander, who has previously urged the local authority to take over the landfill, warned: “Patience is running out as the problems experienced by the people have been horrendous. It’s not just environmental problems, but quality of life issues.”
Councillors heard that Central Demolition were keen to consult with the public on future developments at West Carron should it be given the go ahead.
The history of the site dates back to the 1700s when it was used by Carron Iron Works. Since the 1950s it has been used for landfill by a number of operators.
The current permit holder to run the site is GR Services Ltd, but it is in liquidation and not considered by SEPA to be the operator. It had initially been granted permission to operate a non-hazardous landfill at West Carron in 2007.
SEPA admit there have been a number of issues surrounding the ownership, management and operation of the site which led to “justified concerns” from residents.
AC&H Orn 6 Limited owns the land and it is held in trust for the directors of Oran Environmental Solutions Ltd/GR Services Ltd.
No-one from Central Demolitions was available for comment last night.
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Wednesday 22 May 2013
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