Photo: Delta Optimist

Peter Edwards and his wife Linda have been living with the stink of a nearby composting facility for more than a decade.

Edwards took the stand during an Environmental Appeal Board hearing into an air quality permit for the GFL/Enviro-Smart composting facility in East Ladner.

The retired engineer read a prepared statement to the panel Tuesday at the Coast Tsawwassen Inn.

He said the couple has lived in its home for 18 years –  890 metres from the composting operation.

“The stench at many times of the day is so obnoxious that enjoying our backyards, having a barbecue or spending time in the garden is impossible," he said. "We frequently have to go out for a meal or visit with friends just to get some relief from the stench. It’s embarrassing when friends and family refer to our home as the ‘stinky house.’”

Edwards said they have submitted many odour complaints to Metro Vancouver to no avail.

“Judging by the results, Metro and the City of Delta have taken no action. It really feels like a pointless exercise,” he said. “The stress from the lack of help and feeling of being constantly victimized in your own home is at times overwhelming.”

Edwards says he has no confidence that a $37-million enclosed facility would end the problem.

During the first 11 days of the hearing, GFL lawyer Gary Letcher said hundreds of complaints by residents are not based on scientific evidence and that the residents are not experts in determining whether foul odours were coming from GFL or other farming operations in South Delta.

The hearing is scheduled to end June 28.