NRW say they “are taking this matter seriously” after more Johnstown odour complaints

Johnstown landfill operators should give Natural Resource Wales “an updated action plan by the end of this week”.

The response comes due to the seemingly endless ongoing issues associated with the landfill site.

On Monday we reported how Cllr David A Bithell had written an open letter to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) asking for “immediate and effective action” to address the ongoing smell issue, adding “It is imperative that the source of the odour is identified and that appropriate measures are taken to mitigate it”.

Responding, James McClymont, NRW Team Leader Industry & Waste Regulation for North Wales, said: “NRW received several reports of odour in Johnstown over the weekend. NRW officers have visited Johnstown in response to the reports and the complaints are being investigated.

“We fully understand the level of concern in the local community with regards to odour issues and we want to reassure people that we are taking this matter seriously.

“NRW officers continue to ensure that the Site Operator at the landfill site in Johnstown meet the requirements of their Environmental Permit. They are continuing to carry out works to enhance the utilization of landfill gas and reduce the potential for odours. We are also reviewing the Site Operator’s management procedures and they are to provide us with an updated action plan by the end of this week.

“We continue to encourage residents to report any odours believed to be coming from the landfill to NRW on 0300 065 3000 or via our online report it form our website.”

Separately – yesterday’s stench in the wider Wrexham area was not believed to be linked to the Johnstown issue, and is of yet, of unknown origin.