A closure order to restrict access to the illegal waste site at Bolton House Road has been secured by Wigan Council.
Following the announcement of the government’s Waste Crime Action Plan last week, which committed to clearing the Bickershaw waste site, Wigan and Leigh Magistrates’ Court have approved a closure order for the land today
The closure order will prevent access to any unauthorised individuals at the Bolton House Road waste site, as assessments and preparations to remove the waste get underway. Breaching the order is a criminal offence.
Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux MBE, said: “The announcement that central government will fund the clearance of the Bolton House Road site is fantastic news for all of the residents and the community who have had to live with the daily impacts of the illegal waste dump. This closure order will ensure that no further illegal activity can take place at the site as it is prepared for clearance.
“Following the fire at the site in July 2025, Wigan Council has been working with the Environment Agency and other partners to minimise the impact on the public and environment, and try to find a solution to the problem.
“We have long called on the government to make funding available to help remove the waste at Bolton House Road, so this is a very welcome announcement that will make a huge difference to the community.”
