Spittal, a charming village in Pembrokeshire, is facing a foul stench that has disrupted the peaceful life of its residents. The unpleasant odour, reminiscent of decaying waste bins, has tainted the village’s serene atmosphere, making it less appealing to visitors. Despite this issue, some locals, like Sue Lewis, still express their affection for the tight-knit community and the village’s charm.
The odour plaguing Spittal is suspected to be emanating from the Withyhedge Landfill, managed by Resources Management Ltd (RML), a site permitted to dump 250,000 tonnes of waste yearly. Politics and controversy surround this situation, with Vaughan Gething, set to be the new First Minister, receiving donations from Dauson Environmental Group, related to the landfill. Legal issues involving illegal waste dumping and permit violations further complicate the matter, raising concerns about environmental impact and public health.
Efforts have been made by NRW and Pembrokeshire Council to investigate and address the persistent odour issue, with an enforcement notice issued in February. However, the deadline for resolving the issue has passed, and the smell remains, causing discomfort and health concerns for residents. Local businesses, heavily reliant on tourism, hesitate to openly address the issue to avoid negative publicity that may deter visitors, impacting the local economy.
Locals like Sue and Colin Barnett, who have been directly affected by the stench in their home, have led community initiatives to address the odour problem. They have reported inadequacies in the waste management processes at the landfill, leading to odour emissions and potential health risks. Despite promises of resolution from authorities, the situation persists, prompting residents to protest and demand action from those responsible for the landfill.
The breakdown of waste materials at the Withyhedge site releases hydrogen sulphide, a harmful gas with a distinct rotten egg smell. Increased truck traffic bringing waste to the site, even from outside Pembrokeshire, exacerbates the issue, impacting the air quality and residents’ health. Efforts by the site operators to address the odour problem have been met with skepticism, with residents expressing frustration over delays in resolving the issue and the perceived lack of accountability from the companies involved.
Local authorities, including NRW and Pembrokeshire Council, in conjunction with health boards, have acknowledged the severity of the situation and its impact on residents. Ongoing investigations and efforts to address the odour problem are underway, with environmental agencies monitoring the site and assessing the effectiveness of mitigation measures. Community pressure and public outcry continue as residents seek a permanent solution to restore the tranquil atmosphere of the village of Spittal and safeguard their well-being.
