About GMGU

Greater Manchester Geological Unit (GMGU) was established in 1986 as a joint arrangement between the ten Greater Manchester district authorities to offer advice on all earth science and minerals and waste planning issues. GMGU provides a range of technical services to AGMA, other local authorities and public bodies

GMGU was managed on behalf of the ten AGMA authorities by Salford City Council.

In September 2006, GMGU transferred into Urban Vision, a joint venture company previously established with Capita Symonds to provide Salford's planning and other environmentally related services.

The GMGU is an AGMA planning unit set up to provide minerals and waste planning support to the ten GM authorities.

This includes providing support on 'county wide' strategic issues as well as development control support to individual districts. The Unit receives Core and Service Level Agreement 'AGMA' funding to cover the cost of these services.

The services to districts include providing specialist support and advice on minerals and waste policies and specialist development control support in respect of minerals and waste planning applications.

GMGU undertake the role of project management in production of the Waste Plan. They are required to undertake all aspects of plan production and consultation and act on behalf of the ten authorities.

The production of the plan is overseen by the AGMA Joint Waste Plan Committee supported by a Steering Group of officers with representative of each of the ten districts.

The Joint Committee is represented by lead Members for planning and an officer from each of the ten authorities.

The Joint Committee has power to approve the plan up to Publication and has been delegated to approve any minor changes following examination by each of the 10 Greater Manchester Full Councils.