Redbridge Council said it received a significant number of complaints about foul odours affecting various parts of the borough.
Following an investigation by the council’s pollution control team, an authority spokesperson said the likely source has been identified as a farm located within Barking & Dagenham.
The farm was reported to be spreading manure as part of its regular agricultural activity.
The council spokesperson said a shift in the usual wind direction meant the smell travelled further into Redbridge than normal.
Redbridge said it has liaised with Barking & Dagenham Council, which has also received complaints about the smell – which is now said to have disappeared.
Its officers have been asked to visit the site and speak with the farmer to ensure best practice is followed—specifically, avoiding stockpiling and promptly mixing or turning the manure into the soil to reduce odour impact.
Redbridge’s pollution control team will be meeting with their counterparts from Barking & Dagenham at the farm to further assess the situation and discuss mitigation measures.
Confirming that the smell has now disappeared, the council expressed its gratitude for residents’ patience and understanding during the investigation.
Residents who complained about the issue will receive a direct response shortly, the Redbridge spokesperson said
