Residents in Johnstown voice concerns over persistent odors from Hafod Landfill, prompting calls for action from local officials.
Johnstown: Residents are upset about bad smells from the Hafod Quarry Landfill Site. North Wales MS Mark Isherwood has stepped in to help. He asked the Welsh Government for a statement on the issue.
During a recent meeting in the Senedd, Isherwood highlighted the community’s frustration. They feel Natural Resources Wales isn’t doing enough to fix the smell problem.
Isherwood mentioned a motion that will be discussed at the next Wrexham County Council meeting. Local councillors are saying they’ve had enough of the situation.
On Friday morning, residents plan to protest at the landfill site. They want their concerns to be heard loud and clear.
Isherwood stated, “I call for a Welsh Government Statement from the Climate Change Secretary on the Hafod Quarry Landfill Site.” He noted that residents have complained about the ongoing stench.
He added that the motion before the council highlights serious environmental and public health concerns. It also suggests a plan for better regulation of the landfill.
A spokesperson for the Welsh Government said Natural Resources Wales is in charge of regulating landfills. They are aware of the community’s concerns and are taking them seriously.
Lyndsey Rawlinson from Natural Resources Wales said they are closely monitoring the Hafod Landfill. They confirmed the presence of odors and are working with the site operator, Enovert, to ensure compliance.
Rawlinson mentioned that they have conducted several inspections and audits. An action plan is being developed to address the issues, with some actions already scheduled.
They are also working on an odour monitoring program to ensure compliance with environmental standards. Residents are encouraged to report any odors they notice.
Public Health Wales advises residents to contact their GP if they have health concerns. Enovert’s CEO acknowledged the community’s worries and is working with regulators to improve the situation.
He noted that the Hafod site does not accept waste from Wrexham. Instead, it serves commercial customers from North Wales and nearby areas.