People affected by a “rotten eggs” smell have been told there are no long-term health impacts. 

Residents in Darlington, Newton Aycliffe, and the surrounding villages have reportedly experienced skin rashes and headaches due to the stench. 

Complaints linked to the smell from Ashcourt Quarry, near Newton Aycliffe, were first reported in 2023. 

Councillor Bryony Holroyd told a Darlington Borough Council health scrutiny meeting how residents continue to report the presence of the toxic smell. 

“There's major concern about breathing difficulties in the north of Darlington because hydrogen sulphide produces the smell of rotten eggs,” the Green Party councillor said. 

“Your airways burn and I’ve heard of people getting skin rash issues, headaches and long-term exposure which is generally unpleasant.”

The meeting was told work to stop the smell is ongoing and health officials at Darlington Borough Council urged residents to see a doctor if they continue to suffer from health issues. 

Lorraine Hughes, director of public health, said: “The advice we’ve had from the Health Security Agency is that there aren’t any long-term health risks but that’s not to disregard those short-term irritations. Some people are more sensitive to it than others. 

“It’s not a pleasant thing to smell if you live in the area. We have asked the questions but there is no evidence of long-term health risks or consequences.

“We are aware that people are reporting discomfort and symptoms. People are advised to go to their doctor if they need any help.”

A fixed odour monitoring unit has been installed by the Environment Agency in Brafferton. A fixed odour monitoring unit has been installed by the Environment Agency in Brafferton. (Image: Environment Agency)

Despite people still reporting the stench, the meeting heard how emissions from the site have reduced in recent months. A fixed odour monitoring unit has been installed by the Environment Agency in Brafferton. 

Ms Hughes added: “The latest report was published in August and the emission of gases has reduced. The readings taken at the site show that the works undertaken to date have had a positive impact. 

“I can understand it seems to have taken a while but the work being carried out is having a positive impact.”