RESIDENTS say they are ‘upset’ after controversial plans have been approved to expand a composting operation on farm land, despite more than 100 smell complaints.

Residents from Lowton, Leigh, Golborne and Glazebury, have complained about the smell and traffic they claim is caused by Diggle Green Farm on Wilton Lane, Culcheth, with some even saying they cannot open the windows in their homes.

Permission was granted by Warrington Council last week, to increase the amount of organic waste used at the site, from 35,000 tonnes to 72,000 tonnes.

Ed Thwaite, chairman of the Lowton East Neighbourhood Development Forum (LENDF), said: “We are very upset by this decision because despite the fact the site is in Culcheth, the air is carrying the stink to other areas.

“Some people cannot open their windows or have moved because it is so bad.

“All that we want is for something to be done about this and an expansion will only make the problem worse.

“There are 40 foot trucks taking the rubbish to and from the site regularly, which spreads the stench further.

“Though it is commendable what the owner is doing by recycling wise, it just is not fair to pollute the air.

“We have spoken to the owner and he has made steps to try and combat the problem on a small scale and we appreciate that, but it simply is not enough.”

During the meeting, many councillors spoke of their sympathy for the residents' plight but made the decision to approve the application, with six councillors voting in favour of the plans, while two members abstained.

Lowton East Cllr James Grundy, added: “I understand that the owner of Diggle Green Farm now had permission to expand but there is still an ongoing problem and it is not going away.

“The smell problem is affecting people in other areas stretching as far as Pennington, so something needs to be done to combat this.

“I urge anyone who is concerned to contact the Environment Agency and Warrington Council so hopefully procedures can be put in place to help with the problem.”

You can call the Environment Agency on 03708 506506.