Swale has been accused of breaching the law over a foul stench that has hung over Sittingbourne this summer.

The Swale Seniors Forum, which has a nearly 200 members, is demanding action from the authority, saying it is an environmental hazard.

It has written to council chief executive Abdool Kara saying not enough has been done to address the problem.

The letter states: “Each year the same awful stench prevents our members from going outdoors, from sitting in their gardens and taking strolls.

“Many have to remain indoors with their windows closed to prevent the stench
permeating further.”

It goes on to say the smell is not only a nuisance, but a “matter which is detrimental to the health of our members.”

The lingering odour has appeared during the summer months for a number of years now, with complaints raised about it annually.

The Forum called on Mr Kara to personally address the problem, arguing the council was in breach of its “statutory duties and responsibilities” under the “provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.”

It adds the authority should do more than simply tell residents to raise the issue with the government Environmental Agency.

Mr Kara was unavailable for comment, but a spokesman for Swale council confirmed it
carried out an odour assessment early last month and discovered the source of the smell was paper sludge being spread at the town’s Stiff Street.

“Many have to remain indoors with their windows closed to prevent the stench permeating further” - the Swale Seniors Forum

He added: “At this time of year farmers are working long hours to harvest crops, fertilise the fields and plant the next crop.

“Spreading materials such as paper sludge, sewage sludge, compost and farm yard manure ensures that the next crop get the nutrients that they need and it ensures that these materials get recycled rather than disposed of.

“These are recognised agricultural practices, which mainly go unnoticed by residents.

"Any odours usually subside soon after the operation is completed.

“We are working with the Environment Agency to ensure that all of these activities are completed in line with best practice.

"If you want to report an odour, please contact the Environmental Agency on 0800 807060, or Swale council on 01795 417850.”