02 November 2018

Council to assume coordinating role in Portlethen odour investigation

As inquiries into the source of an unknown offensive odour continue in Portlethen, Aberdeenshire Council’s Environmental Health team has agreed to coordinate efforts by all agencies involved.

A public meeting was held last night (Thurs, Nov 1) at Portlethen Academy to discuss the issue - complaints from residents have been increasing since June.

Along with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) and Scottish Water, council environmental health officers have recently undertaken joint visits to the area, the meeting heard.

Scottish Water has also surveyed parts of the sewage network in the Cookston Road area as part of investigations to determine the source.

At the meeting was a representative from the local meat processing plant, McIntosh Donald, who presented the firm’s current position and stressed the company wants to be a good neighbour.

Site manager Craig Anderson outlined works they undertake in line with their Pollution Prevention and Control permit issued by Sepa. He highlighted that effluent is also regularly tested by Scottish Water.

Sepa are the enforcing authority for emissions from the factory and Aberdeenshire Council’s Environmental Health Team has responsibility for potential sources outwith the factory boundary.

While the source of the odour remains unclear, the Council will endeavour to support partner agencies in their investigations going forward and will provide regular updates to the community council.

Residents were reminded at the meeting to report any foul odours when they occur, so that relevant officials can visit the scene to witness it and investigate.

All agencies involved in the meeting pledged to work together to assist local residents and said they would meet again with the community council to discuss progress.

Odour issues can be reported to Environmental Health on 01467 537436 or via: environmental@aberdeenshire.gov.uk