Fairlie Community Council and Clydeport have had a productive meeting over concerns regarding coal dust in the local area.

Councillor Steve Graham reported that the new consultation meetings mean that there is greater dialogue between the company and the village, and both have a greater appreciation of their different concerns.

The problem of coal dust, which has been frequently reported in recent years, was also raised with the company.

Mr Graham told the community council that Clydeport were investigating various different methods in terms of trying to prevent the coal dust problems including putting a cage around the hopper area, and pointed out that staff at the terminal were also undergoing a training programme in terms of dust suppression. “It is good to see that they are taking a pro-active approach,” said Mr Graham.

He pointed out that measures to be put in place including the coal unloading operation coming to a halt if a dust problem emerged.

Villager Caroline Briggs asked why this could not have been done a year ago, but Mr Graham pointed out that at least there was a more positive approach being taken, and added that there were also looking at carrying out improvements to the footpath at the mound area - a popular spot with dogwalkers and nature lovers.

Acting chairman Alistair Green said: “It is good to see that they are taking action and more social responsibilities.” A spokesman from Clydeport, in reference to the dust control measures said: “When we last met the Fairlie Community Council, various control measures were discussed, however a chemical spray was not one of the measures discussed in relation to dust control.

“The USA is currently carrying out experiments with a foam-based product to minimise the impact of self-combustion which is a completely different issue from dust control. Peel Ports did advise the village council representatives of new control measures including a site management plan in conjunction with SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency), water atomisers in the hopper discharge area, belt sprays throughout the whole site and additional perimeter sprays in specific areas, additional CCTV for crane operators and pre discharge risk assessments to review the cargo and weather conditions before the discharge commences.” And a spokesman for Peel Ports said: “We believe the regular meetings are a positive step forward and generate a healthy dialogue for both parties. The council represent the residents and the meetings provide the opportunity to communicate any pertinent issues on their behalf. Peel Ports in return are able to advise of the progress of work taking place on site and demonstrate our commitment and responsibility to managing environmental issues and potential impact on the local community.” And as we recently reported, a fire took place at the Clydeport facility on Friday 5 September. The spokesman explained: “Late on Friday afternoon one of our contractors had a small fire on a piece of mobile plant which occurred in an isolated area. The fire service responded to a call and attended to ensure it was extinguished appropriately.”