The Jameson Road landfill site in Fleetwood, Lancashire, has come under fire from residents, campaigners, and local officials amid ongoing complaints of foul odours—described by locals as the stench of rotten eggs—since its reopening in late 2023.

Operated by Transwaste Recycling & Aggregates Limited, the landfill has drawn more than 4,000 complaints, with an additional 1,500 logged by Wyre Borough Council. Residents say the air pollution—caused by gases like hydrogen sulphide and methane—is affecting their health and quality of life, and are demanding urgent intervention.

“It’s Unbearable”: Community Plagued by Toxic Smell

Locals from Fleetwood and nearby areas such as Thornton and Cleveleys report persistent symptoms including headaches, nosebleeds, and respiratory issues.

“The smell is still choking us nightly,” wrote one resident on X.
“We can’t open our windows, we can’t sleep.”

While the UK Health Security Agency acknowledges that hydrogen sulphide at ambient levels is typically low-risk, it also notes that prolonged exposure can cause discomfort and irritation.

Regulatory Response: Suspension and Controversy

In response to mounting pressure, the Environment Agency (EA) issued a suspension notice in March 2025, halting all waste intake at the site until Transwaste upgraded its gas capture systems. Following a site inspection on April 2, the EA lifted the suspension a week later, stating that odour levels had improved.

However, campaigners dispute this assessment.

“We were told it would get better, but nothing has changed,” said Thomas Mitchell, a resident who launched a petition now nearing 7,000 signatures.

Critics have also raised concerns about Wyre Council’s role as both landlord and investigating authority, suggesting a potential conflict of interest that has slowed enforcement.

Protests and Political Pressure Mount

Public backlash has grown steadily. The Action Against Jameson Road Landfill Facebook group has nearly 3,000 members, organising protests and encouraging locals to report odour incidents using council-issued diary sheets. The campaign has received support from MP Lorraine Beavers, who has called for stricter oversight and attended several public meetings.

“Residents shouldn’t have to live like this,” Beavers said. “We need stronger regulation and accountability.”

Transwaste Responds

In a statement to the Blackpool Gazette, Transwaste said it has invested £2 million in odour mitigation since taking over the site. The company confirmed that work on Cell 6 had been completed to minimise gas emissions.

“We’re committed to operating within environmental guidelines and reducing our impact on the local community,” a spokesperson said.

Yet, for many residents, words and pledges aren’t enough.

“We’ve heard promises before,” said another protester. “We need action, not excuses.”

What’s Next?

Campaigners continue to call for the permanent closure of the site or a full independent investigation into its environmental impact. Meanwhile, Wyre Council urges residents to continue logging odour complaints to support possible statutory nuisance proceedings.

As tensions escalate, the Jameson Road landfill case highlights broader concerns about landfill regulation, environmental justice, and community health protections in the UK.

Residents affected by the landfill can submit their experiences and evidence through Wyre Council’s official channels or join community forums to stay update