The issue of odour from this landfill site is one which I take very seriously - it has always been my top local priority. Indeed, I was asked about the landfill at my selection meeting by Derrick Huckfield and it has been on my agenda since then. Since being elected in December 2019, I have held many meetings with local campaigners, the Environment Agency, and Red Industries Limited in an attempt to find a solution.
Clearly, this is affecting the quality of life of a number of my constituents, and the situation is not fair or right.
I have met with Government on this issue, including the Prime Minister on multiple occasions. In December 2021, the Waste Minister visited Newcastle-under-Lyme to chat with me, local residents and councillors about the landfill. In Parliament I have held an Adjournment debate on the landfill and I have brought forward a 10 Minute Rule Bill on regulating odorous emissions from landfills. In February, I secured a debate in Westminster Hall on criminality within and regulation of the waste industry. A major focus of my contribution was on Walley’s Quarry landfill. You can watch it here. In January 2023, I raised Walley’s Quarry at a Back Bench debate on landfill tax fraud. I have raised the landfill numerous times in Parliament, at question time for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), which you can watch my question here and at Prime Minister's Questions, which you can watch here.
I welcome the news that Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council have come to an agreement with the operator that the Statutory Nuisance Abatement Notice served on Walley's Quarry for odour nuisance in the town will stand. Walley’s Quarry Limited have acknowledged that their site has been the source of community complaint. The agreement also legally requires the operator to use best practical means to stop causing odour problems for local people. In addition, the Council have been able to agree with Walley’s Quarry Limited a range of measures, such as improved access to information about activities on the site, which should be of real benefit to residents. This is a win not only for the Council but for the whole of the community affected by the odour from Walley’s Quarry.
I will continue to push this issue through all relevant channels until we can live stink free. I will also continue to press for those responsible to be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.