THE Environment Agency has issued another update on its investigation into the persistent and unpleasant smell affecting Calne.
The agency has been working with Wiltshire Council to identify the source of the odour, which has been causing widespread concern among residents since February.
The EA say they have substantiated odour reports in residential areas of Calne, likely caused by landfill gas from regulated activity in Compton Bassett.
Targeted surveys of two landfills in the area have identified potential sources of the odour - at Lower Compton Landfill, point source emissions from gas and leachate infrastructure were detected, and the operator is currently carrying out improvements. Gas collection infrastructure has also been installed in the active landfill cell and is now operational, which should reduce diffuse emissions from this activity. No emissions above background levels were identified at Sands Farm Landfill.
The report from EA also states: 'It should be noted that the surveys give an indication of performance at a point in time and are not conclusive evidence that the Lower Compton landfill is the sole source of odour. However, the improvements being made will reduce the potential for odour impacts from this site.'
Cllr Sam Pearce-Kearney who has been heavily involved with the investigations into the source of the smell said: "Many of us in Calne and the surrounding area were looking to the Environment Agency's latest briefing for a more substantial update on the odour problems.
"However, based on the briefing and conversations I've had with people from our community, there's a shared feeling that progress appears slow and the information lacks depth." Sam would like to hear what residents think of the latest update issued by the Environment Agency in order for him to collate a report to send back to them. You can email him here:
Meanwhile, a group of local residents has formed Breathe Calne, a community-led initiative aiming to improve air quality and promote a cleaner, healthier environment in Calne.
The group was formed in response to the persistent and unpleasant smell affecting the town. They've launched a website to provide updates, share information and engage the community.
Breathe Calne plans to meet regularly to discuss current air quality concerns and long-term initiatives, such as tree planting and increasing green spaces.
Andy and Steve from Breathe Calne told us: "One of the ideas we’re exploring is encouraging every resident to plant a tree, contributing directly to cleaner air and a greener Calne.
"We are also beginning to explore potential partnerships and funding opportunities with local businesses and the town council to help bring these initiatives to life."
You can find out more about them here: https://www.breathecalne.co.uk/
Photo credit: DEFRA
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