Expansion plan for East Yorkshire waste site sparks concern over persistent odours

A large bio-waste and waste recovery site in Willerby, East Yorkshire, is undergoing a consultation for significant expansion plans amidst long-standing complaints about pervasive odours.

The Wastewise site, operated by FCC Environment, seeks to enhance its facilities to manage and sort waste from recycling centres and kerbside collections in the region.

Despite the proposal's aim to address the 'putrid smells', residents remain sceptical about its effectiveness, expressing concerns about the site’s impact on quality of life.

Councillor Zahra Saribal of Willerby and Kirk Ella ward advocates for urgent action, stating that the smell has made it difficult for locals to enjoy their gardens.

Cllr Saribal said, “Any investment that has the potential to reduce odours and improve environmental performance deserves to be considered positively."

However, she underscored the need for robust safeguards and accountability to ensure genuine improvements.

Residents have voiced their apprehensions online, worrying the plans may not sufficiently tackle the odour issues and could increase traffic and noise.

FCC Environment highlights the proposed improvements, including enclosed waste handling and environmental controls, as steps to alleviate residents' concerns.

The organisation invites local feedback until 8th October 2026, asking residents to email [email protected] before plans are submitted to East Riding Council's planning committee.

FCC Environment aims to mitigate the area's odour issues through site enhancements and by maintaining transparency around the environmental impact of its operations.

Residents can report ongoing smell issues through East Riding Council’s website.