A major dispute between a council and a controversial deodorant factory in Tonbridge has been resolved, days before the case was due to go to trial.

Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council served a number of statutory abatement notices on Drytec and its parent company during the course of 2014.

They were in connection with the emission of "sickly sweet" odours from the business premises, in Morley Road, which have plagued residents for more than 20 years.

The notices were appealed by Drytec and representatives from Drytec and TMBC appeared at a preliminary hearing in May to discuss the facts of the case.

It was due to go before Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court for a five day trial starting today.

However, Drytec has now agreed to withrdaw all the appeals and to meet the council's incurred legal and expert costs, which amount to £38,848.

The agreed terms have been approved by the court.

The withdrawal of the appeals means all of the abatement notices remain fully in force.

“This is a great result which vindicates the approach taken by the borough council to address the emissions from these premises and their impact upon residents" - Cllr Jill Anderson

In the event that there were to be a breach in the future, the borough council may look to bring criminal proceedings.

The factory produces fragrances used in deodorant and flavours for food. Despite its industrial location in Tonbridge, emissions can often be smelt in the north of the town.

A council spokesman said the number of complaints about the odour from Drytec have reduced in recent months.

Cllr Jill Anderson, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing and environment services said: “This is a great result which vindicates the approach taken by the borough council to address the emissions from these premises and their impact upon residents.

"Members of the council’s Environmental Protection team carried out extensive monitoring which has been crucial in establishing the evidence base for the successful defence of these appeals. Consistent with the Council’s approach to date,

"Council staff will continue to work with Drytec and their advisers to ensure that an appropriate action plan is in place to monitor and address any emissions created by the operation of their business.”