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Residents in Fleetwood, Lancashire, have been suffering from a strong and persistent foul smell linked to a reopened landfill site at Jameson Road. The odor, described as similar to rotten eggs and sewage, is caused by hydrogen sulphide gas released from the waste site operated by Transwaste after it resumed activity in late 2023.
The smell has triggered over 20,000 complaints to the Environment Agency, with thousands more reported in recent weeks as residents say the problem is getting worse rather than improving. People living nearby report symptoms such as nausea, headaches, nosebleeds, eye irritation, breathing difficulties, and worsening asthma or COPD. Some even say the smell is so strong it affects them inside their homes at night.
Local schools have also been impacted, with children reportedly refusing to play outside due to the stench. Holidaymakers staying in nearby caravan parks have complained of feeling sick, with some cutting their trips short.
Residents and local professionals claim the issue is seriously affecting health and quality of life, and some believe it may have long-term consequences. Studies on similar landfill sites suggest possible health risks for nearby populations, although evidence remains limited.
The site has been found to have multiple compliance breaches, and the operator has begun installing measures such as barriers and capping to reduce emissions. However, many locals argue that authorities, including environmental regulators and councils, have not acted strongly enough.
Tensions have risen politically, with local representatives calling for the site to be shut down and accusing the company of failing to take responsibility. The operator denies wrongdoing and says it is complying with regulations while addressing the odor problem.
Meanwhile, residents continue to protest, gather evidence, and demand permanent closure of the landfill, saying their community has been ignored and left to endure unacceptable living conditions.
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