A decision is imminent regarding an application to extend the operation of the Highfields South Landfill in Walsall Wood for an additional four years. The current permission, granted to site operator Enovert, is set to expire on December 31, 2025. This extension request follows a previous nine-year extension approved by Walsall Council in 2016.
If approved, the landfill will continue accepting waste until it reaches capacity, after which it is planned to be fully restored for public use. Walsall Council’s planning officers recommend approving the extension with specific conditions aimed at minimizing impact.
However, the proposal has drawn significant opposition from local residents and representatives. Councillor Keith Sears, representing Aldridge North and Walsall Wood, urged that the decision be carefully considered by the planning committee due to concerns over the degradation of local living conditions.
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The council has received 43 objections citing issues such as noise pollution, persistent foul odours described as an “egg-like stench,” dust, increased traffic, highway safety risks, and adverse effects on public health. Despite this, one supportive comment called the proposal a “sensible approach” to managing waste in the area.
Among statutory consultees, only one objection was raised, pointing to insufficient information regarding potential flooding risks.
Public dissatisfaction peaked in 2019 when a petition demanding action against the landfill’s odour amassed more than 3,600 signatures. In 2025, Labour Group leader Councillor Matt Ward highlighted reports from residents describing nausea, headaches, and disrupted sleep caused by the overpowering smell. The Environment Agency (EA) has since conducted investigations and odour monitoring surveys to address these concerns.
Enovert maintains that the landfill operates within the terms of its environmental permit and has expressed willingness to engage with councillors about ongoing issues.
The planning committee is scheduled to make a final ruling on Thursday, November 27, at 6 pm.