Odours, fumes and dust

We investigate complaints about smells, fumes, and dust from premises in the district.

Odours and fumes

Odours and fumes generated by industrial premises are usually controlled by having systems in place to deal with the emissions.

Offensive odours can often be difficult to trace where there are many industrial or commercial premises in an area, such as an industrial estate. However, when making a complaint, it helps our investigation if you can identify where the fumes or smell is coming from.

Dust

During demolition and construction works, dust is often generated which can cause a nuisance to nearby residents. As well as looking unsightly, dust can prevent people using gardens and opening their windows. The best way of dealing with dust is by screening and damping down the area.

How to make a complaint

If you would like to make a complaint, please complete the online form below or contact us.

In the event of a justified pollution complaint, an Environmental Health officer will investigate. If he or she confirms a statutory nuisance, formal action will be taken on the person responsible, which may involve the issue of an Abatement Notice.

If the officer feels that there is not enough evidence, has not been able to witness the alleged nuisance or does not consider that a statutory nuisance exists, no further action will be taken.

If found guilty of an offence of this type then the maximum fine is £5,000 on domestic premises and £20,000 for commercial premises.