Peel commissioners support silt dredging operation

Peel Commissioners have made public their support of the silt removal operation in the town's harbour.

The decision to temporarily store the dredged silt in specially-lined areas has proved a highly contentious issue for the Department of Infrastructure, and local residents were angered when silt was spilt on to roads in Peel as it was being transported to the site.

There have also been environmental concerns about heavy metals leaking from the specially constructed storage pond.

The Department of Infrastructure agreed to enter into a covenant with German Parish Commissioners over the use of the land near Poortown Quarry following a public meeting.

The department also agreed to install more fencing around the storage site, improve wheel washing facilities for lorries being used and publish the results of fortnightly water testing.

In their statement Peel Commissioners say the Marina couldn't continue to operate without the dredging operation.