LOCALS in Urmston were this week given the chance to have a sneak preview of plans to restore green land to The Meadows.

The project is a partnership between Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority (GMWDA) and Greater Manchester Waste Limited and hopes to improve the land quality in the Cob Kiln Lane area.

And those spearheading the environmental face-lift say that they want locals to see what is planned and have their say.

Head of contract monitoring and support services for GMWDA, Colin Vaughan told SUM: "We think that the restoration of these two fields will prove to be hugely popular with walkers and anyone else who enjoys the meadows. Their views are immensely important.

"This is a former landfill site and currently cannot support good green land because of poor soil quality - that is why we are working with our partners to improve that soil."

The scheme involves the recycling of organic household waste such as vegetable matter, paper and card which is transported to the site as the main source of soil forming material.

This is joined by garden grass cuttings and trimmings that are all spread together to form more improved soil.

Colin went on: "There are two main sites owned by GMWDA which are undergoing long term planting and we are hoping that locals will see a marked change by autumn next year.

"It is a key recycling effort and is more beneficial, both environmentally and cost-wise, than landfill and it is hoped that it will help create new nature habitats and additional footpaths."

The work has met with some concerns from residents after an increase in heavy goods traffic delivering waste to the site.

But waste chiefs want to reassure the local community that everything is being done in the proper way and will benefit all.

Colin added: "We know that there have been concerns and that is why we have sent out leaflets and held the open day to let people know exactly what is being done here.

"There will be some inconvenience initially but we are sure that people will be happy with the end product.

"Nevertheless, anyone who has any questions about the scheme should feel free to contact project staff for more information."

Queries about the land restoration project can be put to GMWDA staff on 911-3581. Alternatively, any concerns about the materials and spreading operation should be directed to GM Waste Limited on 01204 654611.

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