THERE was a different kind of drama at Parr Hall tonight as plans to extend the life of Arpley Landfill were turned down.

Crowds turned out in force to make their feelings clear about the Sankey Bridge tip citing smells, dust and traffic as some of their big concerns.

With Matthew Hayes, representing the applicant FCC, treated like a pantomime villain, 10 people spoke including Warrington south MP David Mowat, councillors and heads of residents groups opposing the plan.

Meanwhile Mr Hayes used his time to point out landfill tax money had been spent in the area before criticising the council for not responding to requests for background papers.

He claimed councillors did not have ‘accurate information’ to make a decision as FCC, formerly known as WRG, had not been given the opportunity to address concerns and called for the decision to be deferred.

Councillors dismissed his argument as ‘nit-picking’ before unanimously voting to reject the proposals.