INVESTIGATIONS into a Cumbrian town's persistent 'pong' are continuing.
In the first six months of 2024, the Environment Agency (EA) received 455 complaints regarding odour in Penrith.
This follows 1,367 complaints in 2023, a sharp rise from the previous year.
While no official source has been confirmed, many residents believe the smell originates from the Omega Proteins factory, a rendering plant on the western edge of the town operated by Leo Group.
The EA is investigating the factory for compliance with its environmental permit, while Westmorland and Furness Council’s environmental health team is investigating the odour issues and whether it constitutes a ‘statutory nuisance’ which could result in consequences for the factory if so.
Steph Cordon, director of thriving communities at the council, confirmed the investigation is still in progress, despite an initial plan to conclude it by the end of September 2024.
"The council had hoped to have finalised its investigation by the end of September but has been unable to come to a final conclusion as we await further information from other organisations.
READ MORE: Odour reports suggesting factory as 'pong' source surge
“We are pressing this issue and hope to conclude our final report as soon as possible,” she said.
Ms Cordon also stated that a new process to assess odour complaints, focused on reports near Newton Rigg, will be introduced soon as part of the investigation.
A spokesperson from Leo Group, the parent company of Omega Proteins, said they continuously invest in the site, citing the use of advanced odour abatement techniques and noted that many complaints received by the Environment Agency are ‘reported’ rather than ‘substantiated’.
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