LISTEN: Flies plague homes in Newton Mearns after illegal fly tipping

Work to remove rubbish from a site in Newton Mearns which has left locals plagued by flies has been given the go ahead.

A mound of illegal tipping was uncovered at the former Netherplace Dye Works and SEPA issued a quarantine notice for the area.

It has now been lifted, meaning the complex removal operation can take place - it'll start today and is expected to take several weeks.

Sophie Shiels is from the town and told Radio Clyde News it has been awful...

Kenny Boag, SEPA’s Head of Operations for the South West, said:

“SEPA officers are continuing to prioritise the investigation into an illegal waste site at Netherplace Dye Works, close to Newton Mearns. Our primary aim is to ensure that the waste currently on site is managed, transported and disposed of in a safe and legally correct manner and are also working closely with the local council and landowner to address the issue of flies on site and reduce their immediate impact on surrounding homes and businesses.

“Due to the volume and variety of waste types which have been found on site and the complexity involved in removing waste safely, work to remove the material will take time. Particular care must also be taken to avoid exacerbating the existing problem with flies. While our investigation is ongoing however, we are in discussion with the landowner, to look at all available options to reduce the number of flies at the site, including pest control measures to treat the waste.

“We have devoted considerable resources to tackle this illegal activity and will be pursuing those responsible. We greatly appreciate the patience of the local community while this work takes place and will do everything we can to provide a further update as soon as possible.”