Odours and Dust

 

Richmondshire is a predominantly rural district and it is normal to be exposed to odours produced by farming activities. These smells are particularly prominent during and just after slurry spreading. Farmers should follow agricultural codes of good practice in order to minimise the impact of odours associated with particular activities.

 

Some industrial and building activities can produce dust and adequate dust suppression should be employed where necessary.

 

If you feel that the level of odour or dust produced by a particular business is excessive and interferes substantially with your well being, comfort or enjoyment of your property, they could be causing a statutory nuisance.

Under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990, a Statutory Nuisance includes "dust, steam, smell or other effluvia arising on industrial, trade or business premises and being prejudicial to health or a nuisance".

If bothered by dust or odour, speak to those responsible and explain the problem. They may not be aware they are causing you distress. If this does not work, contact the Council's Environmental Protection section.

They must investigate your complaint and can issue a nuisance abatement notice under the EPA. The Act also allows you to take private action in the magistrate's court.

 

Environment Services
Friars Wynd
Richmond
North Yorkshire
DL10 4RT

Tel: 01748 829100 Fax: 01748 826186