A DECISION on the fate of the contentious Tyrers Coaches depot in Farnworth could be due soon, although residents have been very critical of the plans.

Bolton Council’s Planning Committee is to discuss proposals for the Bloomfield Road site tomorrow (Wednesday) after years of disputes since the company moved to the site without council permission in 2015.

The latest round of talks will involve the proposed Noise Management Plan, a system involving limitations to the hours of operation and maximum number of buses; measures to reduce the speed of vehicles; the erection of acoustic fencing and other rules.

It also includes clear operational instructions meaning engines must not be left idling for longer than necessary, vehicles must be driven in a “careful manner” and shouting and raised voices on the site should be only used in emergencies.

However, residents are unhappy with the measures, believing the plan is a water-down version of a previous Noise Management Plan.

Resident John Anderton said: “The new Noise Management Plan is a relaxation on the plan that was first rejected last year. It’s an absolute nonsense.”

The plan has already been in place for some time although Mr Anderton says it has not worked and the site is still causing a lot of disruption.

He also disputed the findings of the council’s noise reports, pointing to the findings of a report by consultancy firm Hann Tucker which was completed at the request of the residents.

The report found a much more significant negative effect was being caused by the site, standing contrary to the council’s own findings.

This would likely have an effect on whether the management plan was accepted or not, because its effectiveness is likely to be judged.

As it stands, the Planning Committee will discuss the site’s future tomorrow at the council’s offices at the Town Hall from 1.00pm.