By Alex Dowdalls

WORK has finally been completed to clear an illegal dump which caused a fly infestation across East Renfrewshire.

The site, near Newton Mearns, was plagued by flies back in April, wreaking havoc on local communities.

Residents in Newton Mearns first began complaining about the infestation before fears arose swarms had spread as far as Barrhead.

Experts from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) launched an investigation into illegal dumping of waste at the Netherplace Dye Works.

Over 1,500 tonnes of mixed waste and chemicals had been deposited at the site, which had been leased to a tenant by the landowner.

A SEPA team joined forces with the council and landowner to secure the site so that no more waste could be dumped and then focused on making sure the waste was removed safely and legally.

Now it has been confirmed that the removal process, monitored closely by a partnership of public bodies, including SEPA, East Renfrewshire Council and local emergency responders, has been completed.

Councillor Charlie Gilbert, who represents Newton Mearns North and Neilston, said: “I am delighted at the outcome and that the infestation no longer poses a risk to residents.

“I am relieved that the site has been fully cleared and would ask residents to get in contact with me immediately if there are any other issues.”

Kenny Boag, SEPA’s head of operations for the south-west, added: “The full and final clearance of waste from the former Netherplace Dye Works is great news and will be warmly welcomed by the local community, which suffered greatly as a result of the illegal waste stored at this site.”