Former colliery ponds in Mansfield emptied during investigation into mystery 'disgusting' smell

Meden Vale residents are still in the dark as to what is causing a ‘raw sewage’ smell, which seems to be emanating from the old Welbeck Colliery site.
The ponds alongside Elkesley Road which are currently being drained as a possible source of the smell which has been frustrating residents for months.The ponds alongside Elkesley Road which are currently being drained as a possible source of the smell which has been frustrating residents for months.
The ponds alongside Elkesley Road which are currently being drained as a possible source of the smell which has been frustrating residents for months.

Investigations are now underway by the Environment Agency which sees the ponds alongside Elkesley Road being drained as a possible source of the smell.

A spokesperson said: “The Environment Agency takes all reports of odour very seriously and is committed to investigating them fully.

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“We have identified that it is likely water in two ponds, which do not belong to the permitted operations on the site, that is responsible for causing this odour.

The former Welbeck Colliery siteThe former Welbeck Colliery site
The former Welbeck Colliery site

“We are now working with Biogas Meden and the landowners, Harworth Estates, to drain the ponds. Further odour might be caused while this work takes place.

“If members of the public experience odour or other issues they should ring our 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

“If residents have health concerns they should contact their local GP, who can seek advice from Public Health England.

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“Our officers will continue to carry out regular on-site checks.”

Matt Phillips, plant manager at Biogas Meden confirmed an investigation was ongoing and letters had been sent explaining the works to residents in the immediate vicinity of the site.

They read: “Future Biogas takes its role in the community extremely seriously. In line with our work with the Environment Agency, we are preparing to empty the ponds located at the top of Elkesley Road, in close working with Harworth.

“The intention is for the majority of the tanker movements to be via the main estate entrance off the A616 to minimise any disruption to residents.”

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Councillor Phil Shields has been campaigning for the smell to be investigated for months.

He said: “Having walked by there on a number of occasions I think they may contribute, but I am not sure if they are the cause of the total problem .

“The good thing is that at least something is being done, and at the very least it is an acceptance that a problem has been caused for residents for some time.”