Residents have been forced "seal up windows and vents" and remain indoors due to a "horrific stench" from a landfill site.
Pilsworth South Landfill is facing a series of complaints from locals in Bury and Rochdale who have reported an "awful" smell.
The site - located next to the M66 between Bury and Heywood - has prompted a petition demanding an investigation.
It has now been signed by almost 4,000 people.
Residents have been forced "seal up windows and vents" and remain indoors due to a "horrific stench" from a landfill site
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Manchester mayor Andy Burnham visited the area following outcry and admitted "it took me back".
The Environment Agency - which monitors the operator Valencia Waste Ltd - say officers are continuing to attend the Pilsworth site and are increasing regulatory inspections.
According to the agency, a total of 90,000 square metres of previously exposed waste has now been covered.
Chiefs say 80 per cent of the operational area to prevent odours from escaping from the site.
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Following intervention, it was agreed that the site would take no more waste from 26 February 2024.
In a letter, Valencia said full-depth gas collection wells have been connected to existing site infrastructure to remove landfill gas from the newly temporarily capped area.
The firm has warned that there could be "temporary localised odour" while work is being carried out.
However, they insist their team is working hard to "complete these engineering works and resolve any odour issues".
Pilsworth South Landfill, Bury is facing a series of complaints from locals who have reported the 'awful' smell
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An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "Our officers continue to attend the Pilsworth site, increasing our regulatory inspections and working closely with partners to improve the situation for local communities.
"Since our intervention 90,000 square metres of previously exposed waste has been covered, as well as 80 per cent of the operational area, to prevent odours escaping from the site.
"Members of the public can continue to report odour to our 24/7 incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60."
