HILLS Waste Solutions has provided an update into works they have carried out at the Lower Compton Landfill site to address ongoing complaints about bad smells affecting residents in the Calne area.
The site, operated by Hills, was identified as one of the locations that may have been contributing to the 'Calne Whiff'. In response, the company has now completed a variety of improvements, including works outlined in a Regulation 36 Notice issued by the Environment Agency.
A spokesperson for Hills Waste Solutions said: “Since our Lower Compton landfill was identified as one of the sites which may be contributing to odour issues in the Calne area, we have now completed a variety of improvements. This includes the works which were already underway and listed in a Regulation 36 Notice from the Environment Agency: including the permanent capping works to Cell 26C, which was completed on 8th July 2025; the installation of the permanent gas collection infrastructure which was completed on 7th July 2025.
“Gas extraction from the gas wells was implemented as each well was installed, with full extraction from the installed wells in place by 11th July 2025.”
Details of the works completed include:
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The permanent capping of Cell 26C (which includes regulation materials, 1m of clay cap, subsoils, and restoration soils on the northern flank). All of which have been installed and inspected to the Construction Quality Assurance (CQA) measures as outlined in the CQA Plan that was approved by the EA.
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The temporary capping of flanks to the south of Cell 26C.
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The installation of 7 new gas wells to depth in Cell 26C and their connection to the gas collection system.
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The installation of 14 new gas pin wells (shallower and going to a depth of ~6m) in the southern area of Cell 26D.
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A full site Flame Ionisation Detection (FID) walkover survey of the site by an external contractor, to highlight any weaknesses within the gas and leachate collection systems, subsequent repairs/upgrades and retesting by site.
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The use of a Jerome unit, which was used both on and off-site out of hours, to detect potential hydrogen sulphide levels.
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The installation of a second odour suppression line to the west of the operational area.
Looking ahead, Hills confirmed that more upgrades are scheduled for early August: “Other works planned for early August include: the installation of four sacrificial horizontal gas wells and a further five pin gas wells within the operational area, as filling progresses.
“In addition, we will conduct monthly routine Flame Ionisation Detector (FID) walkover surveys – which will help identify areas on site that may require further work/remediation, plus ongoing review of operations.”
Hills has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of the landfill and maintaining dialogue with the community as works continue.
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