A COMPANY is finally taking steps to remove dangerous toxic waste from its premises after being served with a contempt of court notice.

But the bosses of Kiely Developments Ltd could still face imprisonment for their delay in taking action.

The Bury-based firm ignored a magistrate's court order in November ordering it to clear the 250 drums of waste from their site in Richmond Hill Street, Accrington.

Hyndburn Borough Council sought a High Court injunction in March again ordering them to remove the chemicals, but still no action was taken.

Last Friday the council served a Contempt of Court notice on the two directors of the firm. Kiely bosses contacted the council's legal department for the first time on Tuesday and said action would be taken. Contract workers for Kiely, Lancashire Waste Services Ltd, were said to be attending the site today to identify the waste.

Kiely should have removed the drums in March but told the council they would be cleared by April 24.

However, a further hearing is due to take place at the High Court tomorrow, Friday, where the firm's bosses could be sent to prison if they have not complied with the March injunction.

Head of legal services at the council Linda Comstive said: "Kiely Developments has finally begun to take steps to remove the waste after persistent legal action by the council to make the factory safe.

"Before further court hearings are called off the company must have satisfied the council 100 per cent that they will correctly dispose of the toxic drums and pay all costs incurred by the authority."

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