Tetbury residents in the Cotswolds are voicing severe concerns over persistent fires emitting thick black smoke and a “toxic” smell from Tetbury Industrial Estate. Complaints have risen after more than 50 fire service calls since January 12, with many locals reporting symptoms including nausea and respiratory distress.
The industrial estate’s owner claims the fires—now extinguished—were sanctioned by the council and fire authorities to clear illegal fly-tipped rubbish. However, Cotswold District Council firmly denies granting any permission for waste burning at the site. The council emphasized that burning waste, particularly trade waste, is unauthorized regardless of origin and stressed that permits for such activities fall under the Environment Agency’s jurisdiction.
Local authorities have responded vigorously: environmental health teams have made multiple visits, issued a fixed penalty notice, and served a nuisance abatement notice to halt the fires, describing the smoke as a statutory nuisance. A legal case is underway to pursue further action as needed.
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The Environment Agency has received over 40 public reports concerning the smoke and its health impacts and remains in contact with the council, which is leading enforcement efforts. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue confirmed their role was limited to monitoring reported controlled burns and clarifying they do not grant burn permissions.
Residents living just two miles from King Charles III’s Highgrove House expressed alarm over the hazardous air quality. Some described being unable to open windows without experiencing illness, while others, like Lynsey Hart, reported becoming physically sick from the noxious fumes.
Local Liberal Democrat MP Dr Roz Savage acknowledged the distress caused and praised the council’s swift enforcement actions. She pledged to continue pressing for decisive measures to protect residents’ health and restore a safe living environment.
The situation underscores the challenges communities face when unauthorized waste disposal leads to dangerous environmental and public health hazards, and it highlights the critical role of coordinated enforcement among councils, fire services, and environmental agencies.