Pitsea landfill owners are creating a new lagoon to take contaminated water which the Environment Agency claims is causing a stink over south Essex.

Cleanaway was ordered to clean up its act after dozens of complaints. But despite the addition of tonnes of oxidising agents, the smell quickly returned.

A Cleanaway spokesman said: "The company is totally aware of its responsibilities to both the local community and the environment in relation to all its operations, including the odours currently arising from its Pitsea landfill site.

"A dedicated task force consisting of internal specialists and independent technical consultants is in place, headed by a senior director with many years' practical knowledge and experience of dealing with difficult landfill sites.

"This team has been given full responsibility and all the necessary financial and other resources to resolve the problem."

Published Thursday, May 22, 2003

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