Hydrogen sulfide gas from landfill causes health concerns in Calne

Residents in the Wiltshire town of Calne have been living with a persistent bad smell and related health concerns for over a year, caused by hydrogen sulfide gas leaking from a local landfill site at Lower Compton. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has provided clearer information on the health impacts, stating that the gas can cause headaches, dizziness, an irritated throat, and coughing, and has the potential to affect people who already have respiratory problems.

The Environment Agency held a drop-in session at Calne Town Hall to update residents on the situation. The agency has been monitoring the landfill, which is owned and operated by a company called Hills, and has forced the company to undertake remedial work. The work involves capping gas pipes to reduce the amount of gas escaping. Hills has said it is fully cooperating with the Environment Agency and that the works are ahead of schedule.

Residents described the smell in vivid terms, comparing it to a dog having an accident indoors, a problem with drains, or a bad smell like organic matter going off. One resident said, "It makes me wonder whether or not the dog's done something in the sitting room... or that there's been a problem with the drains where I haven't flushed the toilet properly." Another described it as "a general warm smell as if organic matter just going off."

The Environment Agency acknowledged that the levels of odour experienced in Calne have been completely unacceptable. A spokesperson said the agency acted quickly upon reports of the odour and through regulation required Hills to bring forward large engineering works, which take time to have the required effect. The agency believes these works, brought forward to a higher standard than usual, will improve the situation for residents. They anticipate a continued reduction in odour levels over the coming weeks.

The drop-in session was scheduled to run until 7pm, giving residents a chance to hear the latest updates and express their concerns. The Environment Agency expressed optimism that the problem, which has plagued parts of Calne for well over a year, may finally be resolved, bringing fresh air back to the area.