A controversial landfill site outside Lisburn which was closed down following an inspection has been reopened this month after action was taken to deal with masses of flies and foul smells. The site at Mullaghglass was shut down by the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) on 3 June 2007 following an inspection, but it was reopened later that day after spraying to try to control the flies. However, locals say the measures are proving totally ineffective and they are becoming concerned at the possible health risks around the chemicals being used. Residents are now hoping that the temporary closure and media interest will prompt some kind of independent investigation into the establishment and running of the site.
Lisburn City Council Mayor Trevor Lunn supported the temporary closure, and said the council would look into the complaints. There have been constant public protests about the site, which is run by Alpha Resource Management under licence from the EHS, since it opened. Nearby residents have labelled it a major health hazard and since the advent of warmer weather, clouds of flies and foul odours make it impossible for them to open their windows or let their children out to play. Safety concerns have also stemmed from the number and size of the trucks using the narrow country road which leads to the landfill site, and the presence of vermin and flocks of scavenging birds drawn by the dumping of food waste.
Alpha Resource Management issued a statement saying they had been asked to carry out out some minor works, and the site was reopened on their completion with the normal dumping of waste resumed. Meanwhile the EHS have responded by saying that although the fly population had increased it is "nowhere near infestation levels" and is now "under control."
