Town fights 'losing battle' against bad smells

People say a smell that has affected their Somerset town for years has stopped them being able to use a community facility.

Described as a cross between gas and rotten eggs, residents living close to the Somerton Commercial Recycling Centre say the smell has gotten so bad that they are unable to use the community shed near the tip.

Gary Maughan, a member of the community shed, said staff try to bring isolated people together to socialise, but they "can't stand the smell".

The Environment Agency said it is looking into the issue. The recycling centre has been approached for comment.

He added that the smell people describe is most likely hydrogen sulphate.

"I've done some research and hydrogen sulphate, or sewer gas, actually attacks the central nervous system and can give headaches and migraines," Mr Maughan added.

"In the community shed, most of our members have been isolated. We get them together to build their self confidence.

"They can't stay in the shed with this smell."

Brian Kent has owned a farm near the tip since 2007.

He said: "We wanted to build our house, it was our dream, and we did. When it comes to around five o'clock, you know it's going to smell so you have to close your windows.

"I don't think it can carry on, it has to be resolved as soon as possible.

"This was my dream, and we got it. We've lived here for 19 years and I can't understand why we've got such a lovely countryside and a tip in the middle of it."

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "Our officers have investigated a number of odour complaints for Somerton Landfill.

"We understand the impact odours have on the community and we are requiring the site operator to minimise odour."

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