§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received regarding the stench of sewage and other obnoxious smells in the area near the high-level bridge on the M63 motorway; if he is aware that this atmospheric pollution is causing hardship and suffering in the area; if he will institute an inquiry into the source, frequency and intensity of this nuisance; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Graham PageThe emission of smell is listed as one of the statutory nuisances under the Public Health Act 1936. The local authority has power to serve a nuisance abatement notice, which is enforceable in the courts. A public inquiry would not, therefore, be appropriate.
There are several possible sources of smell in this area, including two sewage works and several factories. Large-scale sewage disposal operations are carried out at Manchester Corporation's Davyhulme works and Eccles Borough Council's Peel Green works, which both lie close to the M63 motorway bridge. Davyhulme is a modern works, and, I understand, Eccles borough has plans to modernise its works. I have been given assurances by the local authorities that all reasonable and practicable steps are taken to minimise smell at these works.
I am writing further to the hon. Member.