A WASTE treatment plant must resolve its ongoing odour issue, a Northwich councillor has said, as he vows to put residents’ health and wellbeing first.

Cllr Sam Naylor said the smell emitted from the Renescience plant in Lostock is a ‘long standing and unacceptable issue’, affecting nearby businesses and residents.

The plant, which treats up to 80,000 tonnes of waste per year - the equivalent to waste from around 70,000 UK homes - had an odour management plan approved by Cheshire West and Chester Council back in 2019.

At the time, complaints from the nearby community about the smelly odours were swiftly addressed by Orsted - the company that runs the plant - who fitted a replacement filter.

But problems still persist.

Cllr Naylor said unless the ongoing odour problems are resolved he, along with MP Mike Amesbury, will be seeking a withdrawal of the plant’s permit from the Environment Agency.

Cllr Naylor explained: “The plant and surrounding properties are in my ward and the odour escaping from this energy-from-waste process is a longstanding and unacceptable issue.

“Whilst l appreciate that this is a new industry which provides local job opportunities, the health and wellbeing of local residents and those who work in nearby outlets must come first.

“I and MP Mike Amesbury are intending to meet with the Orsted Vice President who is flying over from Denmark next week and if there is no resolution, we will be seeking the withdrawal of the permit issued by the Environment Agency which allows Orsted to operate the Lostock plant.”

A spokesperson for the Renescience plant, said: “We are aware of recent local concerns and are working hard to fully investigate and address any issues raised.

“We have been working alongside independent specialists to explore and implement further improvements on site.

“We take any complaints seriously and will remain in direct contact with local stakeholders to update on the situation.”