Although we have received only 20 odour reports via the 24hr hotline in the last 6 months, we undertook an unannounced site inspection on 28 October 2025. Odour was not detected in the area on approach to the site.

Some of the reports we received described a burning odour which were not associated with the landfill site. It has been noted that a neighbouring farm is burning on a daily basis and this has been reported to the relevant teams to investigate.

Since the Essex County Council household waste contract ended in April, the rate of waste coming into the site has reduced significantly, which means that the number of vehicles transporting the waste in the local area has also reduced significantly. The final cell, 11C located furthest away from housing, is still being filled with waste but at a slower rate than before and capping of the landfill has progressed this year.

Works to install further landfill gas infrastructure, starts week commencing 01 December 2025, for approx. 2 weeks weather permitting. This will involve drilling into the waste mass and installing gas wells. Gas wells capture the landfill gas and reduces any potential for fugitive emissions into the environment. The works may release some short lived odours, but the operators have procedures to follow in this event.

The next inspection will be in 2026.

We undertook an inspection and off-site odour assessment on 23 July and have been in regular liaison with the site operator regarding the reports of malodour received.

Odours have been found to be the result of engineering works to connect the new sidewall liner to the liner at the base of the cell. These works are essential for ensuring the appropriate containment of the waste being landfilled. The operator has made some changes to the design, and the way they are doing this work, to help minimise the potential for further odour. We have also observed improvements in the covering of wastes on site.

We continue to monitor the situation closely and will be conducting further inspections and off-site odour assessments in August.

Buckden landfill remains closed for the acceptance of waste for disposal, however, you may still see vehicles entering and exiting the site as these will be carrying material to be used in the capping and restoration of the landfill.

Capping works will be starting week commencing 11 August so you may see increased movements on the landfill.