Story by Andrew Green
Despite existing complaints from local residents, planning permission is being sought by Viridor Waste Management to dump more noxious waste at Parkwood.
They hope to dump ‘active’ waste in the area near to the ski slope. Active waste, such as household refuse, rots and releases gases. These gases have to be burnt and cause the smells local residents complain about. Currently the area is used only for ‘inert’ waste (construction and demolition material).
The plan would reduce the time that the site is open by nine years, the company claims. Because there is more active waste available, the site would be filled more rapidly. With inert waste, it will be 20 years before it is filled up.
The company plan to transfer inert waste to form a buffer zone between the site and the Kingsmead private housing estate just above it. An exhibition to explain the proposal will be staged by the company on 5th–6th April at Shirecliffe Community Centre, from 4–8pm. Viridor staff will be present to explain the plans.
Viridor has also submitted a planning application to install an electricity generating plant which would be powered by the methane gas produced at the Parkwood Landfill. Currently this gas is burnt off in a flare, but Viridor hope to use it to generate electricity to feed into the National Grid.
Another planning application is for the installation of a reed bed for treating leachate. Leachate is the noxious liquid that collects at the base of the landfill site and which currently goes into the sewers. The reed bed would filter the leachate naturally, and reduce the need for subsequent treatment of sewage.
Viridor operate an ‘open door’ policy, and are willing to show people round the landfill operation. Contact Viridor on 275 9523.