Residents of a cul-de-sac in Willesborough, Ashford, are being driven from their homes by a persistent foul odour emanating from a Southern Water pumping station. The stench, described as 'non-stop' by locals, has become so unbearable that some have taken week-long holidays just to escape.
Residents Describe Overwhelming Stench
Barry Jupp, 74, a resident of Alsops Road, said the smell resembles 'rotting eggs or diarrhoea' and occurs throughout the day with no pattern. 'It just hits you out of nowhere,' he told reporters. The problem escalated in September 2025, when Jupp recalls leaving a window open and the odour stinking out his entire house.
Jupp explained that the smell has forced him to take extreme measures: 'I drove to Cornwall purely to get away from the smell for a week.' Other residents have similarly taken holidays to find relief, as the odour prevents them from enjoying their own gardens or even opening windows without the home becoming unbearable.
Southern Water Acknowledges Issue
Southern Water has confirmed it is aware of complaints from residents near its Alsops Road pumping station. A spokesperson said: 'We’re aware some residents living near our Alsops Road pumping station have complained of a bad smell and our teams are investigating.' The company noted that hot weather could be a contributing factor and has scheduled a clean of the sewage tank, which it hopes will improve the situation.
Despite multiple visits to check drain covers and confirm blockages, Jupp says little has been done to resolve the problem. The stench, he claims, 'trespasses' on his property, making daily life a challenge.
Council Launches Investigation
Ashford Borough Council has confirmed it is investigating the odour. A council spokesperson said: 'ABC’s environmental health service has received a complaint regarding odours emanating from the Southern Water pumping station. The information was shared at an early stage with Southern Water, and remains under active investigation to determine whether the odour incidents cross the threshold of being an actionable statutory nuisance.'
Residents are urging Southern Water to take more decisive action, as the smell continues to disrupt their lives. The council’s investigation will determine if the nuisance meets legal standards for enforcement.
