Residents living next to a landfill site in Duckmanton, Derbyshire, have described how the stench and swarms of flies are making their lives a living hell. The site, which towers above homes in the village, has grown so big it now dominates the landscape. Locals are concerned that the situation has become so bad that they will be unable to sell their homes.
Residents Describe Daily Ordeal
Some say they cannot go outside or open their windows because of the smell, while others complain that flies regularly invade their homes. The landfill site was supposed to remain within the original quarry area, but now reportedly extends up the nearby hillsides.
Amy Jackson, a mother of four, told The Sun: "The persistent stench, swarms of flies, dust, and relentless noise have turned our home into a place of discomfort rather than refuge. During the recent hot weather, we were unable to open our windows because the odour was so overpowering. My children ask why our house smells so bad. No mother should have to answer that question."
Marie Norman, a 54-year-old carer and mother of four, said the rubbish has "risen all up the hillside." She reported that it has impacted her physical and mental health, noting more frequent use of her inhaler and increased depression.
Flies and Health Concerns
Gary Berresford, who lives around 50 feet from the site, said he battles swarms of flies every morning. The 38-year-old spends about 20 minutes after waking up every day trying to get them out of his home. The smell has become worse during the recent warm and windier weather.
Residents fear that local house prices could plummet as people are put off from moving to the area. One resident claimed she suffered bouts of nausea due to the smell.
Political and Regulatory Response
Toby Perkins, Labour MP for Chesterfield, said he has received numerous complaints from residents. He stated they should not be forced to keep their windows shut in the current hot weather. The landfill site opened in 1999 and was first operated by Viridor before being taken over by Valencia. It was set to close in 2021, but permission was granted to continue operations until 2036.
A spokesperson for Valencia apologized for any inconvenience caused but insisted the site continues to operate in line with its environmental permit and planning conditions. They added that extra dust-suppression measures were recently introduced, and cover activity has also been increased to reduce the smell. The Environment Agency confirmed they were pressing Valencia over the smell caused by the landfill, adding that enforcement action would be considered if the situation does not improve.
