Waste transfer site will be placed next to gipsy site

The derelict plot will become the borough’s main recycling centre and a new headquarters for Ansa Environmental Services, the Council’s operating company for recycling and streetscape services.

The site was identified as the best location after an extensive search throughout the borough.

Cheshire East Council has purchased the land for £2.41m and it is estimated that the redevelopment plans would involve the transfer of up to 400 jobs to Middlewich.

The new recycling centre will be placed in Middlewich after the Pyms Lane site in Crewe was sold to Bentley Motors for £40million.

Cllr Michael Jones, leader of Cheshire East Council, said the plans demonstrated the council’s determination to make the most of opportunities that arise for the ‘benefit of residents.’

He said: “This is the second piece of the jigsaw that will enable Bentley to make their ambitious expansion plans happen – but it’s also vitally important for the council in its own right.

“The current depot sites will not be suitable for the next 20 years and because of their size and location are not viable for redevelopment. 

“A single, larger and more central depot that can be equipped to deliver the council’s ambitious strategy is the only viable solution. There will be no energy from waste at the new site in Middlewich.”

Cllr David Topping, Cheshire East Council’s Cabinet member in charge of service commissioning, added: “This is an ideal opportunity to begin to realise the council’s strategy with a new, purpose-built facility.

“There are numerous benefits to having one location, such as removing duplication of weighbridges, transfer sheds and vehicle maintenance.

“Not only will there be no cuts but the development of the new depot will actually create jobs in rural communities.”

The news of the waste transfer site being placed on Cledford Lane comes after Cheshire East Council announced plans to the borough’s first legal traveller site nearby also on Cledford Lane.