The Environment Agency says it is continuing to investigate odour complaints in Calne and the surrounding area following a sharp increase in reports.
In a update issued today, 2nd March 2026, the agency confirmed it is working with Wiltshire Council and the UK Health Security Agency to understand the extent of the issue and its impact on residents.
The update follows a significant rise in complaints linked to Lower Compton Landfill, operated by Hills Waste Solutions.
According to the Environment Agency, four reports were recorded in November 2025 and none in December, suggesting earlier mitigation measures had been effective.
However, 16 reports were received in January, mostly towards the end of the month, and around 100 reports have been logged in February.
The agency acknowledged that while landfill and waste operations will inevitably generate some odour, the impact on nearby communities should be minimal. The recent spike in reports suggests controls “may not be working effectively”, and investigations are ongoing to identify specific sources and ensure corrective action is taken.
Last year, reports suggested smells were most noticeable during the evening and early morning in certain weather conditions. More recent complaints indicate odours are now being noticed during the day as well.
The issue has been closely monitored locally for several months, with Cllr Sam Pearce-Kearney regularly attending liaison meetings with Hills Waste Solutions and the Environment Agency. In January, following one such meeting, he reported that improvements had been observed at the time, with only four complaints recorded early in the month and mitigation measures in place.
Calne Town Councillor Bobby Seymour, is encouraging residents to continue reporting strong smells to help build evidence.
He said the increase in reports highlights the importance of residents notifying the Environment Agency when issues occur.
Residents experiencing odours are urged to report them directly to the Environment Agency via its 24-hour hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or online. The agency says consistent reporting is essential to build an accurate picture of the situation and determine what further action may be required.
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