SIR: I refer to the Red Moss Sports Complex.

When we asked about methane gas at the Public Inquiry in 1995, we were assured that a comprehensive survey of the site would ensure that there would be no problem. Now, thanks to the vigilance of the BEN, we find that methane has been discovered on the site 'only after construction of the sports complex had begun'. (Article in New Civil Engineer).

A plastic membrane has been installed to divert the gas, but the public, who will be using this complex in large numbers, are entitled to answers to questions that should, in retrospect, have been resolved at the Public Inquiry.

Most importantly, they need to be reassured that adequate measures are being taken to disperse the gas safely and to neutralise the risk of explosion.

The system proposed is apparently untried and unproven over any length of time. We are told that this is 'the first full scale trial of the concept', and the plastic used in the protective membrane, high density polyethylene, is the same as that used for landfill liners which the Department of the Environment now accept will leak after a period of time.

The level and extent of the methane emissions seems uncertain. The Consultant Engineer is concerned about the possibility that 'high levels of methane can burn grass roots' and is reported to have commented that they 'are keeping our fingers firmly crossed that the grass does not die'.

In view of these uncertainties, and the fact that warnings were given as long ago as 1994 of the need to check for the presence of gas, why were these matters not resolved in the open forum of the Public Inquiry and taken into account before planning permission was given?

Dennis Watson

For Bolton Friends of the Earth

Millgate, Egerton

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