Residents of Duckmanton, Derbyshire, are expressing fury over an expanding landfill site that they claim has led to swarms of flies, unbearable odors, and dust, making their homes uncomfortable and potentially impacting their health. The landfill, originally slated to close five years ago, has received permission to continue operations until 2036.
Locals report feeling like "prisoners in their own homes," unable to use their gardens due to clouds of dust and legions of insects. The stench, exacerbated by recent hot and dry weather, has prompted numerous complaints to local councilors. Some residents fear the ongoing issues will make their homes unsellable.
Amy Jackson, a mother of four, described the situation as turning her home into a "place of discomfort rather than refuge." She noted that during the recent hot weather, windows had to remain closed due to the overpowering odor, and her children were unable to play outside without flies landing on their food and toys. Jackson has spent a significant amount on pest control measures, but the flies persist.
Marie Norman, 54, reported that the landfill's expansion has worsened her asthma, leading to increased inhaler use. She stated that uncovered waste on the hillside creates a health hazard, and she cannot keep her windows open due to dust. Gary Berresford, 38, who lives approximately 50 feet from the site, described killing flies as a daily morning ritual, with traps filling within days. He also expressed concerns about the site's ability to safely contain waste and odors as it expands uphill, fearing potential flooding onto surrounding countryside with heavy rain.
The impact of the landfill extends to neighboring Long Duckmanton, over a mile away. Catherine McConologue reported that cars are constantly covered in dust, flies are "horrendous," and the stench is "absolutely awful," leading to concerns about public health and property values.
Valencia, the company operating the landfill, stated that it is operating in accordance with its environmental permit and planning conditions, including measures to control dust and odor. The company has increased dust suppression efforts during the recent heatwave and increased daily cover activity. Valencia noted that the Environment Agency has not found issues with flies in recent weeks. The company recently received approval to begin operations in a newly engineered landfill cell, which involves exposing stockpiled waste before tipping. Valencia has responded to increased odors by closing the site to waste deliveries and increasing soil capping. They anticipate all waste will be tipped and covered in the coming days, followed by landfill gas extraction.
An Environment Agency spokesperson acknowledged the odor issues and stated they are pressing the operator to mitigate them. The agency confirmed the situation is gradually improving, with operations focused on resolving the problem. They emphasized that communities should not tolerate odors and that regular inspections are ongoing. The agency stated it would not hesitate to take enforcement action if improvements are not seen.
Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins has also received complaints, stating that the odors have become unbearable during the hot spell, causing residents to become physically ill. He urged the landfill operators to address the smell, warning that the regulator must step in if they cannot, and that the operator must take the situation seriously to maintain its license.