Fleetwood landfill must continue to suspend its activities until the bad smell stops

Transwaste took over the Jameson Road site in Fleetwood last year from previous operator Suez, despite concerns that the landfill was full and no longer viable.

In February this year, the Environment Agency began investigating the site after residents of Fleetwood and surrounding areas complained of a sickening stench, alternately described as that of rotten eggs or rotten onions.

The reason given was the emission of hydrogen sulphide gas, which was released due to the disturbance of old waste as a result of the work carried out there.

After site operator Transwaste failed to meet a 15 May deadline to close the cell associated with the odour problem, the Environment Agency (EA) issued an order on 24 May ordering it to stop accepting new waste and to fix the problem by a deadline of Tuesday 9 July.

Following an inspection this week, EA said the ban must remain in place until it is satisfied that the problem has been properly resolved.

Angry activists have set up a Facebook group called Action Against Gas Smell at Jameson Road and Fleetwood Landfill and are organising demonstrations, calling for the permanent closure of the landfill and describing it as a public health hazard after some people suffered nosebleeds and breathing problems.

However, this week one of the campaigners welcomed news that EA had maintained the lockdown at the site, which is owned by landlord Wyre Council.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “Following an inspection of the site, we have not lifted the suspension order.

“While much of the work required to cover the problem area of ​​the site has already been completed, we require assurance that the work is to the expected standards. We will continue to monitor progress.

“Our priority remains to minimise off-site odour issues. We recognise how unpleasant recent odour issues have been and we are committed to ensuring Transwaste makes the necessary improvements for local residents and the environment.”

Barbara Kneale said: “I think it is the right decision by the Environment Agency not to lift the suspension.

“I welcome the fact that they will not allow any new waste onto the site until they are satisfied that the work is being carried out to the correct standards.

“Personally, I believe Transwaste should never have reopened the site in the first place. However, it is encouraging that EA recognises how serious this problem is for local people and is trying to do something about it.”

A Transwaste spokesperson said: “The installation of the liner is now complete and the area (26,000 m2) is limited as agreed. The Environment Agency is currently reviewing the validation report and we are awaiting their approval.”

Wyre Council previously stated: “The council is aware of the smell coming from the landfill site in Jameson Road, Fleetwood and fully understands the seriousness of the problem for all those affected. We continue to work as part of a multi-agency response to resolve the issue.”

Citizens can continue to report odors to our reporting center around the clock by calling 0800 80 70 60.