URGENT UPDATE: A groundbreaking new waste recovery centre is set to transform recycling in Greater Manchester, with plans just submitted for a facility on the outskirts of Bolton. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is seeking approval to construct this major centre at the former in-vessel composting (IVC) building on Salford Road, Over Hulton, which could handle up to 140,000 tonnes of recyclable materials annually.
This development is a pivotal step for the region’s recycling efforts, replacing the existing Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) at Longley Lane, Sharston, which has been operational since 2013 and currently processes between 90,000 and 100,000 tonnes of dry mixed recyclables each year. The new facility aims to significantly boost processing capabilities, allowing for the recovery of additional materials, including pots, tubs, trays, films, and Tetra Pak cartons.
The planned site is located 2.8 miles southwest of Bolton town centre, in an area primarily designated for industrial use, which includes a household waste recycling centre. Spanning approximately 3.7 hectares, the facility will streamline operations by receiving waste directly from collection vehicles into a designated tipping hall, which will then be processed via a conveyor system.
Officials stress the importance of this upgrade, with a planning statement highlighting the need for enhanced recycling options to meet the community’s growing demands. “GMCA intends to construct a new MRF to replace the Longley Lane facility with an increased processing capacity,” the statement reads.
The Bolton facility will not only improve recycling efficiency but is also positioned to contribute positively to local employment and environmental sustainability. The site previously operated as a composting facility until 2019, when operations ceased following the end of GMCA’s biowaste treatment contract.
The planning application also includes features aimed at community engagement, such as a one-way HGV access system and an educational centre with a viewing platform to allow the public to learn about recycling processes.
Planners in Bolton are expected to review the proposals in the coming weeks, and if approved, this facility could become a cornerstone of Greater Manchester’s waste management strategy. The impact of such a centre is critical, as GMCA currently manages around 1.03 million tonnes of waste and recycling annually across its metropolitan districts.
As the region anticipates a decision, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged, as this development could reshape the recycling landscape for households throughout Greater Manchester.
