Residents report “awful stench” across Canvey & Benfleet after chemical leak

A strong and sickening smell that spread across parts of Canvey Island and Benfleet has been traced, after multiple evacuations and travel disruptions raised fears of a gas leak.

The unusual stench was first reported on the evening of Monday 14 April, prompting concern from residents across the area. Many described feeling physically unwell due to the intensity of the smell.

“It was awful as we got off the train at Benfleet,” said local resident Karen Edwards. “We’re in Hall Farm and it’s really strong, even with all the windows closed.”

Georgina Sanford added: “It’s at the back of my throat it’s so awful. We are feeling unwell it’s so strong.”

Train services between Pitsea and Leigh-on-Sea were disrupted after Benfleet station was temporarily closed as a precaution. Meanwhile, staff at Waterside Farm leisure centre on Canvey are reported to have evacuated the building due to the suspected gas leak.

The source of the smell has now been confirmed as coming from the major Calor Gas storage terminal on Canvey Island. However according to the company, the issue wasn’t a gas leak, but a fault with the site’s “stench” unit – a chemical used to add a distinctive odour to flammable gas so it can be detected if it escapes.

Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris also shared an update after speaking with site management:

“The manager of the Calor storage terminal has let me know that they located a problem with the ‘stench’ unit that they had identified and fixed by approximately 9:30PM.

“Stench is the chemical they put into flammable gas before it is piped that makes it smell so it can easily be identified. Calor have informed me that no flammable gas leaked from the site.

“I will be speaking to Calor to find out more about what happened and what is being done to prevent this from happening again.”

Local resident David William Gubb described the experience: “I could physically taste it inside my house. We were lucky this time but what happens when flammable gas does have a leak?”

Another Canvey homeowner, Emma Taylor, said: “I’ve lived here for over 15 years and I’ve never smelt anything like it. It honestly made my eyes water. We thought it was a serious gas leak and it was really frightening not knowing what was going on.”

Despite assurances that no flammable gas escaped, many locals have expressed concerns over safety and communication, calling for better protocols in the event of future incidents.