Recent data from Walleys Quarry show a significant increase in the number of complaints made over the landfill site. This is the highest number of complaints over the site in over a year.

The most recent figure for the first week of January represents the highest number of complaints since mid- April 2022. The number of people that contacted and complained to Newcastle Borough Council was 229, however just over 600 people made their voice heard and complained to the Environment Agency with 627 complaints.

Earlier this week, Aaron Bell MP met with the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, Phil Duffy. Mr Bell described the meeting as " the most constructive meeting I have had with senior EA leadership ever". During the meeting it was confirmed that at present rates the landfill is to be filled by mid-2025.

This follows what appears to be a change in tone from the EA, in a video message Andrew Hitchings who has responsibility for the regulation of the Walleys Quarry landfill site, said: "We are aware of the significant deterioration in conditions over the last few weeks and particularly last week. This is clear from your complaints, the data recorded from the mobile monitoring facilities and the odour assessments conducted by our officers.

"We are not satisfied that Walleys Quarry Limited are taking the necessary steps to prevent the problem of elevated emissions."

The most recent figure for the first week of January shows the highest number of complains since mid-April 2022 (Google).

It was revealed that the EA have shared concerns with Walleys Quarry that the landfill remains in the lowest compliance band and that it appears not to be working towards compliance. The EA said all options, including a closure notice remain under review.

Mr Hitchings continued: "In order to issue a closure notice the Environment Agency must be satisfied that there is a risk of serious long term pollution or persistent noncompliance with the permit conditions that suggest that an operator is not competent to manage the activity. We would only issue a closure notice as a last resort, having exhausted all other enforcement options. 

The authority in their budget proposals have also increased a reserve fund for any possible legal costs related to Walleys Quarry. The fund, called the Walleys Quarry contingency fund now stands at £300,000 up from £100,000.

WQL spokesperson said: "The Environment Agency accepts that, due to cold weather, some fluctuations in conditions are to be expected. Despite this, conditions remain within accepted guidelines posing no risk to health. 

"As has been noted, complaints figures have been following a significant downward trend as a direct result of significant onsite improvements made voluntarily by Walleys Quarry Ltd. This demonstrable, substantial and sustained progress has been commended by many residents and community stakeholders.

"With regards to the EA's recent comments, WQL strongly disputes it's position and is seeking advice on any subsequent actions from our legal team."

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