People living near a Telford waste site have been told to brace for a stronger and more persistent stench in the coming weeks. The Environment Agency has issued a direct warning that odours from the Granville Landfill site near Priorslee are likely to intensify temporarily during essential December operations.
Essential Work to Control Landfill Gas
The anticipated increase in smell is linked to crucial work planned by the site operator, Potters (Midlands). In December 2025, the company will begin installing permanent gas wells into a previously filled section of the landfill.
An Environment Agency spokesperson explained that this drilling is necessary to enhance the long-term collection of landfill gas, but it may disturb the ground and lead to a short-term rise in unpleasant odours being released into the air.
Ongoing Operations and Monitoring
Simultaneously, the landfill is still accepting waste to complete its 'final cell'. To manage emissions, the site already operates a gas plant that burns captured landfill gas.
This process serves a dual purpose: it helps to reduce the odour and cuts carbon emissions while also generating approximately 1 MW of electricity for the national grid.
Both the Environment Agency and Telford & Wrekin Council have confirmed they are closely monitoring the situation. Regular inspections are being carried out to ensure the operator complies with its environmental permit and that all activities meet required standards.
Representing Residents' Concerns
A spokesperson for Telford & Wrekin Council stated that their role is to ensure residents' concerns are being represented and heard throughout the process.
The council, the Environment Agency, and the site operator are all working hard to address this important issue. Residents are strongly encouraged to continue reporting any odour problems directly to the Environment Agency on its 24-hour hotline: 0800 80 70 60.
