Residents living close to Tetbury Industrial Estate in Gloucestershire continue to experience health issues nearly a week after a series of “toxic” fires broke out at the site. The fires, first reported on Monday, January 12, released thick black smoke and a pungent smell that residents described as “toxic,” forcing children and pets to remain indoors.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue received more than 50 calls related to the fires. Despite the industrial estate owner claiming that the fires were approved by local authorities, Cotswold District Council confirmed no permission was granted for the burning. The council is now preparing a case file to pursue further legal action against the estate’s owner.
Many locals have complained of persistent coughing and other respiratory symptoms believed to be linked to the hazardous smoke. One resident shared, “I’ve had an awful cough since Wednesday, as has my son. A neighbour has the same cough, yet no one shows signs of a typical cold or illness. We suspect it’s related to the smoke from Monday’s fire.”
READ MORE: A40 Gridlock Concerns Rise Over Plans for Thousands of Homes Near Gloucester
READ MORE: Meet the Night Angels: Stroud’s Brave Volunteers Protecting Women at Night
Residents expressed ongoing concern about the severity of the fires. Kayleigh, who lives nearby, said, “The smoke smells toxic and has made us feel poorly. It seeps into our homes even when windows and doors are closed, and the black smoke is so thick you can’t see through the windows.”
Another local, Lynsey Hart, recalled feeling physically sick from the smoke: “On the first day, I was walking my dog and the smoke blew toward us. It didn’t smell normal—it was toxic. I actually vomited on the grass because of it.”
Cotswold District Council reiterated that it did not authorize any waste burning at the site and stressed that burning trade waste is not a permitted disposal method, whether the waste was fly-tipped or not. The council’s environmental health team, working with the police, fire service, and Environment Agency, has made multiple site visits, gathered evidence, and issued a fixed penalty notice along with a nuisance abatement notice to the site’s owner.
A council spokesperson stated, “We understand how distressing this situation has been for residents. We have taken enforcement actions and will continue to monitor the site closely, taking further legal steps if necessary to protect public health.”
In contrast, the industrial estate’s owner claimed the fires were approved by the fire brigade, council, and police, describing them as essential for cleaning up illegally dumped rubbish. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue clarified that while they were notified of planned burns, they do not grant permission for them. Instead, prior notification helps the fire service verify reports and allocate resources appropriately.
The dispute highlights ongoing concerns about industrial waste management and public health in communities near such estates, emphasizing the need for stringent oversight and swift action when hazardous activities arise.