Landfill site receives complaints for excessive odour

A landfill site in Surrey has received over 120 complaints concerning the sewage-like smell that residents in the area have been subjected to in recent weeks. Residents in Redhill, where the site is located, and Reigate have been subjected to the strong smell for a number of days thanks to the Biffa Waste Services landfill.

The strong smell prompted an investigation of the site by the Environment Agency, which found that surface water had become contaminated. Breaches in Biffa's operations had resulted in the contamination, which has caused emissions of methane gas.

While Biffa Waste Management are unable to say when the smell will abate, it is taking steps that were detailed in the Environment Agency's report. Improvements to the site will include the installation of around 100 gas extraction wells, which could help to reduce the smell being caused by the methane. 

Regular inspections and odour assessments will be carried out at the site by the agency to ensure that Biffa is following the recommended steps to reduce the problem.  

The smell at the landfill site was originally blamed on heavy rainfall that had occurred in the area within recent weeks, which Biffa said had saturated the site. However, the company's failings in controlling the release of the methane gas was the main reason behind the strong smell. The gas was found to be emanating from five areas of the site, with elevated methane levels found at one of these. 

If Biffa Waste Management fail to see all points of the action plan within the agreed timescale, the Environmental Agency could use its powers to issue a fine, revocation of environmental licences and permits, a suspension or alter permit conditions.

While the site does emit smells throughout the year, residents have reported that the recent smells they have been subjected to have been much worse than usual. The Environment agency is advising residents to contact them with complaints if the smell continues or returns at a later date.