A planned extension for a waste recycling facility in South Elmsall has been blocked following complaints from over 400 local residents about a “putrid stench.” Wakefield Council rejected the proposal to keep the Hacking Lane site operational for an additional 10 years.
The Environment Agency (EA) is pursuing enforcement action against the operator, Minore (also known as Mineral Processing Ltd), after a planning inspector found hazardous materials on-site that posed health risks. The EA’s decision follows a public inquiry where the operator’s appeal was dismissed. The site’s pollution has been linked to foul odours, dust, and litter, with significant concerns over local watercourses, including Frickley Beck.
Minore has been instructed to remove approximately 180,000 tonnes of material and halt further waste dumping. A notice issued by the EA will take effect on 4 July, revoking the operator’s permit. While the company plans to repurpose the site into a country park, including a wildflower meadow and wetland, its current activities are under close scrutiny. The local community is hopeful for lasting resolution but remains cautious.
