Manx Utilities addresses concerns over proposed Garff sewage works

Public feedback considered following series of 'engagement events'

Manx Utilities has responded to key concerns raised during a series of public engagement events about the proposed Garff Wastewater Treatment Works.

Further investigations are set to continue in February, following the submission of an Environmental Scoping Report to the planning department.

Public engagement sessions took place in Laxey and Baldrine in late November, providing residents with an opportunity to raise questions and highlight issues.

Some attendees expressed concerns about the proposed Axnfell site, citing its proximity to residential areas and potential ecological impacts.

In response, Manx Utilities stated that it had assessed over 50 potential sites, considering factors such as proximity to homes, traffic implications, land zoning, and environmental impact.

The organisation insists that the entire scheme will undergo a comprehensive environmental impact assessment as part of the planning application, which will be made publicly available.

Manx Utilities also expressed disappointment over the planning committee's earlier decision to reject its original proposal for the Cairn site, attributing the refusal to “little visible public support” for the location.

However, during the engagement events, several residents indicated they preferred the Cairn proposal, describing it as “cheaper, less disruptive, and more practical.”

“There is no ideal solution that satisfies all concerns, but we are confident the proposed scheme offers an appropriate compromise,” the MUA stated.

Cost estimates for the project have not been disclosed due to commercial confidentiality.

The additional cost of building a combined treatment works, rather than separate facilities at Laxey and Baldrine, is believed to be approximately 15 percent higher.

Concerns about noise, vibration, and disruption during construction were also raised.

In response, Manx Utilities committed to minimising the impact of noise, dust, and traffic on the community.

The organisation added that it does not expect “any adverse impact from the works with regards to ongoing noise, odour, or vibration.”

The practicality of pumping sewage uphill was another issue highlighted by residents.

While acknowledging that pumping sewage is not its preferred operational method, Manx Utilities pointed to its experience with similar operations across its network and noted that such practices are common in other jurisdictions worldwide.