‘Illegal’ dump investigated by environment agency

A new report has estimated the cost of clearing illegal dumps in Northern Ireland could run into millions.

Officers from the Waste Management Section of Lisburn City Council and NIEA were called out to the large site at the Moira Road on Monday, October 14, following complaints.

Some concerns were raised by residents over smell issues while others complained of unusual waste related activity in an apparent large scale operation.

Eye witnesses claimed to see large trailers coming and going from the site.

Officials have been investigating the depth and quantity of the waste at the site

A spokesperson for Lisburn City Council said, “Following an initial site visit the matter was referred to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) due to the apparent scale of the operation.”

Councillor Jenny Palmer, Chair of the Council’s Environmental Services Committee stated: “Under the protocol which we have with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency Council officers reported activity involving lorry loads of waste material apparently being deposited on land near Glenavy.

“I understand the matter is currently being dealt with by the NIEA. If at any stage the Council becomes aware of any unusual larger scale activity involving the storage, transfer or deposit of waste material in our area we will report that activity to the NIEA as the competent authority.”

A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, said: “Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) can confirm they have received notification of waste illegally deposited along the Moria Road, Glenavy. NIEA officials are currently investigating the matter.”

Anyone with concerns regarding fly tipping is urged to report illegal waste management to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s Environmental Crime Unit.

You can also ring Lisburn City Council can be contacted on 92 509 509.

If you have concerns, and prior to reporting, you are advised not to disturb the waste, try to distinguish what sort of waste it is and how much of it there is.

You are also asked to make a note of the contents, dates and times you saw any waste being tipped and the exact location and find out how many people were involved.

You are also urged to make note of any other details of vehicles seen near the site.