Envar Composting Limited update - 13 Nov 2026

We have decided to approve Envar Composting Limited’s application to vary its environmental permit, reference EPR/GP3930DF/V006. The application was subject to a second public consultation from 24 August to 6 October 2026.

We have decided to approve Envar Composting Ltd’s application to vary its environmental permit, reference EPR/GP3930DF/V006. The application was subject to a second public consultation from 24 August to 6 October 2026. We will issue the varied permit on 13 November 2026.

We recognise that many local residents remain concerned about odour from the site and its effect on their day-to-day lives. We carefully considered these concerns alongside the technical evidence and permit application before making our decision.

Protecting local communities and the environment remains our priority. The varied permit includes additional requirements to control emissions and protect human health and the environment.

1. Enhanced odour controls and monitoring

We have carefully assessed how odour from the proposed biodrying activity will be controlled. Before the new activity can begin, Envar Composting Ltd must meet several requirements, including upgrades to the site's existing odour-control system and updates to its Odour Management Plan.

The permit requires waste to be received, treated and dispatched within enclosed buildings designed to prevent odours escaping into the surrounding area. Air from those buildings must be treated through an approved odour-control system before it is released. The upgraded system must be commissioned and demonstrated to comply with the permitted odour emission limit before operations can begin.

The permit also introduces enhanced monitoring requirements, including six-monthly monitoring of odour concentrations, ammonia, hydrogen sulphide, dust and volatile organic compounds. Continuous process monitoring and annual checks of how effectively the odour-control system is working. In addition, we have included an improvement condition requiring a review of the system's performance while the new activity is running.

Having completed our assessment, we are satisfied that the permit contains the measures necessary to provide a high level of protection for human health and the environment. We will continue to inspect the site and assess compliance with permit conditions. If we identify breaches, we will take action in accordance with the Environment Agency's Enforcement and Sanctions Policy.

2. Ongoing regulatory monitoring

The Brampton Waste Team will continue to carry out regular odour monitoring in the local area. Between 1 August and 11 November 2026, Officers completed 19 monitoring exercises and have worked alongside Environment Agency specialists and the Local Authority to assist in identifying potential sources whenever odours have been detected. This monitoring helps us understand when and where odours are being detected and supports further regulatory action where necessary.

3. Further review and continuous improvement

Following a review of odour regulation activities at the site undertaken by Senior Officers in 2025, the Brampton Waste Team has commissioned further reviews of its regulatory approach by colleagues from North East Area and a National Odour Specialist. The outcomes of these reviews are expected during early 2027 and will help inform future regulatory activity where appropriate.

The varied permit will be available on the Environment Agency's Public Register from 4 December 2026 which you can find using either the site name or permit number: https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/index

We recognise that many people will remain concerned following this decision. We will continue to regulate the site, monitor its environmental performance and take action where necessary to protect people and the environment.