Staff disciplined after Merseyside trade waste investigation

We treat improper behaviour at our facilities with the highest priority and can assure the public that such situations are handled as a matter of utmost concern and appropriate actions always taken

 
Carl Beer, MWDA

After “very serious” allegations were made by a member of the public about activities at the Bidston Integrated Waste Management Facility, the Authority has decided to issue two members of staff with written warnings.

The investigation, which was carried out with the MWDA's waste contractor Mersey Waste, also found that a driver for an unnamed commercial business had not followed proper procedure at the facility on the Wirral when disposing of trade waste.

Carl Beer, director of MWDA, said: “The allegations brought to our attention were very serious. However, we are satisfied that our contractor Mersey Waste Holdings Ltd has undertaken a thorough investigation and taken proportionate and appropriate action to remedy the situation.

“We would encourage our customers to bring matters such as these to our attention at any time. We treat improper behaviour at our facilities with the highest priority and can assure the public that such situations are handled as a matter of utmost concern and appropriate actions always taken. Input from our neighbours and local communities is always welcome as it helps us to improve services to the taxpayer,” he added.

In response to the allegations made about trade waste, Mersey Waste has fully reviewed the procedures at its household waste and recycling centre and is set to appoint a compliance officer to help enforce policies at the site.

In addition, all weighbridge procedures have been reviewed and amended, with refresher courses given to all of the weighbridge staff.

Initially one member of staff – who has now been issued a warning – had been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

Merseyside Police has been informed of the outcome asking whether they intend to investigate the allegations further or are satisfied by the results of the internal investigation.