Objectors attend consultation on Castlederg Recycling Facility

THE public consultation for a proposed recycling facility on the Drumquin Road in Castlederg attracted over 100 attendees last week.

Hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council, the event aimed to address concerns and gather feedback from residents living between Drumquin and Castlederg.

Late last year, residents expressed strong objections to the plan, including potential increases in vermin, heightened traffic, and concerns about proximity to local residents.

The proposed recycling facility is part of the council’s plan to establish a recycling centre to serve the area.

However, after the recent consultation, objectors claimed that the council had not conducted proper due diligence on what they perceive as ‘many flaws’ associated with the plan.

Ian Lowry, a local resident, highlighted the lack of answers regarding meeting planning requirements for such a project in a rural environment.

“We also have concerns about increased traffic near a school bus stop and a busy road junction, along with potential adverse impacts on nearby residents, including noise, dust, and increased vermin.

“We believe the site should be closer to the town centre for the population of Castlederg to avail of it.”

Alternative sites the objectors are advocating for include the former Roads Service Depot in Castlederg, land near the former St Eugene’s School, and the old police station.

The consultation on the proposal is open until 4pm on February 27, with Derry City and Strabane Council urging members of the community who have any concerns to ‘actively participate’ in the consultation process.