CONTROVERSIAL plans to expand operations at Whinney Hill tip angered councillors, who believe that they will lead to an increase in traffic in the area.

Plans have been submitted to Lancashire County Council to form a "global" partnership between the three companies who operate from the site.

The consortium involving waste management company Sita which is responsible for landfill, Park Royal and Marshalls Clay Products, would take over the administration of the site until 2042.

The proposed developments would also see an increase in the landfill capacity from 19.3 million cubic metres to 23.7 million cubic metres.

Clayton councillor Tim O'Kane outlined the fears of local people. He said: "The main concerns are about the backlog in traffic at Whalley Road in Clayton. It's also the fact that over the next 40 years there are to be at least 600,000 tonnes of landfill to be transported to the site every year. That's the equivalent of 300, 40 tonne lorries going through residential areas."

Councillor O'Kane suggested a motorway link would be a better option.

Huncoat Labour councillor Dave Parkins added: "We can't open windows in the summer and we can't wash our cars. There is pollution, dust and the smell coming from the wagons is awful. At the end of the day, the Highways Agency won't allow access onto the M65.

"It's now or never to get a by-pass road in Huncoat. If we don't get it now, we never will. I won't stop until we get it. I will just keep pushing and pushing. It's very important for the people of Huncoat."

Regional Operations Manager for Sita, Ken Taylor, said: "This discussion has been going on for some time. Obviously there are some concerns regarding traffic. Existing traffic is manageable and our intention is to improve access for traffic.

"There is a suggestion of a new motorway junction which could cost over £4mbut it would not sustain the level of spend. The main access of Whalley Road and Accrington Road has been used for many years and will continue to be used. We have done calculations on the current access and we don't see it having a major impact."

Enfield Residents Ass-ociation will be holding a public meeting to discuss the proposals on Thursday 23 January at 8.15pm at St James' Mission, Clayton Street, Clayton-le-Moors. The meeting is open to anybody who wishes to attend and Councillor O'Kane will be present.