I have just been advised that the operators of Walleys Quarry Landfill site notified the Environment Agency last night that they have gone into liquidation.
This, in many ways, is no surprise. The operators at Walleys have been driven by profit over people, and now they have cut and run. It is an absolute disgrace and speaks to the failures surrounding the waste sector in our country. Be under no doubt, there will be a time to ensure that the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme get the justice we need and deserve.
Be assured that the closure notice at Walleys Quarry remains in place. The Environment Agency is on site today, focused on safety, carrying out technical assessments, and continuing inspections. I have had two calls with the EA since last night and have cleared much of my diary to ensure that I do all I can as your Member of Parliament.
There is an immediate need to respond to this disgraceful but unsurprising decision, and then we must look to the future. I have made it clear that the longer-term management and restoration of the site is my top priority—it has been since my election—and I reiterated that in my evidence to the inquiry held in Summer 2024.
In recent hours, I have already engaged with several stakeholders and will convene a meeting of all relevant parties at the earliest opportunity. That’s how we ensure that the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme get what they deserve – good government, wise decisions, answers, and justice. And the sooner, the better.
Next week, I will be going down to Parliament to ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear.
But let me be absolutely clear: liquidation must not allow these operators to escape accountability. They should not be allowed to hide behind the cowardice of liquidation and must be forced to pay for the misery and harm they have caused the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme. They do not get to simply walk away from the damage they have inflicted on our community.
Enough is enough. We refuse to be taken for fools, because there will be a day when those responsible for what has happened at Walleys Quarry will be forced to answer for their actions.