Villagers in Duckmanton, Derbyshire, are experiencing a 'sickening smell' and a significant increase in flies, which they attribute to the nearby Erin landfill site. Residents living just metres from the facility, owned by Valencia Waste, report being 'terrorised' by the ongoing nuisance, particularly exacerbated by recent hot weather conditions. Many claim their complaints have largely been unaddressed for over a decade, leaving them feeling trapped in their homes.
Veronique Pickard, who purchased her home near the site a year ago, described seeing waste piled up from her bedroom window. She stated the smell was 'gross, disgusting,' making her gag and preventing her from spending time outdoors. Her wife, Amy, added that the flies were relentless, not easily deterred, and expressed concerns about potential long-term health implications for residents if the situation continues. Another long-term resident, Tiffany Jarvis, who has lived adjacent to the landfill for 22 years, described the smell as 'violent on the nose' and causing constant sore throats and headaches, likening it to rotting vegetation and meat.
Valencia Waste, the operator of the Erin landfill, which began operations in the former colliery in 1999, has issued an apology for the odour. The company explained that the issues have arisen due to a delay in receiving approval to utilise a new section of the site for waste disposal. This delay reportedly led to waste accumulating, contributing to the intensified smells and fly problem. The landfill, initially scheduled to cease operations in 2021, secured an extension and is now permitted to continue operating until 2036.
In response to the escalating complaints, Valencia Waste has confirmed it has temporarily halted waste deliveries to the site and is increasing soil capping efforts to mitigate odours. The company anticipates that all accumulated waste will be tipped and covered 'in the coming days'. The Environment Agency has confirmed it is actively inspecting the site on a daily basis and has warned that it will take enforcement action if the necessary improvements are not implemented swiftly.
Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins has weighed in on the issue, urging the Environment Agency to take robust action. He highlighted that the agency possesses the authority to shut down the site and revoke its licence. Mr Perkins affirmed that he would be 'putting pressure' on the Environment Agency to ensure Valencia Waste addresses the problems and ceases to be an 'intolerable neighbour' to the communities of Duckmanton and Poolsbrook.