Update on agricultural smell complaints
Published: 01 October 2025
Redbridge Council is aware of a significant number of complaints received last week regarding unpleasant odours affecting various parts of the borough. Following an investigation by our Pollution Control Team, the likely source has been identified as a farm located within the neighbouring borough of Barking & Dagenham, where agricultural muck spreading was taking place.
This activity involves the spreading of manure in preparation for sowing maize for next year’s crop. It is a routine and lawful agricultural practice that typically occurs annually. However, what has made this instance unusual is the prevailing wind direction. Normally, south-westerly winds carry odours away from Redbridge. Last week, however, winds shifted to a north-easterly and south-easterly pattern at around 14 mph, which likely contributed to the odour travelling further into our borough.
Redbridge Council has liaised with Barking & Dagenham Council, who have also received complaints, albeit fewer in number. Their officers have been asked to visit the site and speak with the farmer to ensure best practice is followed—specifically, avoiding stockpiling and promptly mixing or turning the manure into the soil to reduce odour impact.
Redbridge’s Pollution Control Team will be meeting with the Pollution Control Team from Barking & Dagenham at the farm to further assess the situation and discuss mitigation measures.
We are pleased to report that the odour is no longer detectable, and recent feedback from residents confirms that the smell has now dissipated.
We thank residents for their patience and understanding. For those who submitted complaints, a direct response will be issued shortly. In the meantime, this statement serves to provide clarity and reassurance that the matter has and is being actively addressed.
