Bacup Waste Station Approved Amidst Smell and Traffic Fears

Rossendale's development committee has approved plans for a new waste transfer station at Futures Park in Bacup, Lancashire. The decision was made despite local residents raising objections concerning potential traffic issues and unpleasant odors. However, official authorities like Lancashire County Council and the Environment Agency raised no objections.

Planning officers recommended approval, outlining that traffic, noise, and odor control measures, including a roofed building with an air control system and carbon filters, would be acceptable. Nevertheless, some local councillors voiced concerns about the proposal potentially breaching the local plan and natural justice due to document access issues.

Council leadership emphasized the necessity of a local site due to the impending closure of the Whinney Hill landfill site in spring 2026. Alternative distant options were deemed impractical and too costly, making Futures Park a realistic and council-owned solution that addresses environmental and resident concerns.