Press release - 07 Sep 2009

Community ‘working group’ set up for Whinney Hill landfill site

The first community liaison committee meeting for Whinney Hill landfill site has taken place to inform residents of Altham and nearby communities about developments at the landfill facility and to address local concerns about odour issues.

Made up of parish councillors, managers from the SITA UK site, the Environment Agency and a representative from the community, the Whinney Hill Landfill Working Group met last week (3 September) to formally establish the group’s objectives and to discuss the upcoming site improvements.

The group will be chaired by Cllr Rennie Pinder from Altham Parish Council. Altham resident Chris Thompson was voted vice chair.

Cllr Pinder said: “This was an important meeting and a big step forward. What we have to do now is ensure that the community liaison committee, SITA UK and the Environment Agency all work closely together so that the local community and the people of the area understand what is happening on site. It is important that there is a strong link between the company and the community so that local people know where and how to find out the answers to any concerns they might have.”

Brian Harper, Regional Manager for SITA UK’s landfill operations in the north west, said: “By working in partnership with the Environment Agency and the local parish council, we aim to reassure residents by listening and responding to issues and by making information freely available about the site.  

“The first meeting was positive and constructive, with members viewing maps and photos of the site and asking questions of both my staff and the Environment Agency. We very much hope to create and maintain an open and honest dialogue between all parties.

“The next few months will be busy as we progress with the £750,000 investment in a new environmental management system to minimise odours coming from the site and maximise the potential for renewable energy generated.”

He added: “The concerns of local residents are important to us, which is why we are moving quickly and extensively to make this positive investment in the future of the site.”