The most famous smell in Fife could soon be no more as the Methil Ming could soon be tamed after Scottish Water revealed new plans to tackle the putrid pong.
The company has lodged plans to build an odour control plant at its Leven wastewater treatment works, from where the aroma is believed to emanate.
It comes after years of complaints from residents who say the smell has had a devastating impact on their quality of life.
The company is hoping to install two 100ft stacks to help dissipate the smell, with planning permission to be sought. If approved, these could be up and functioning by next year.
Scottish Water has requested to install a temporary odour treatment plant as a stopgap measure.
A spokesman said: “Our investigations since 2012 have identified a number of odour sources for improvement both at Levenmouth wastewater treatment works and in the surrounding sewerage system.”
“Some improvements have already taken place, for example chemical dosing to counteract odour sources in the sewerage system.
“Improvement works are ongoing. We have recently applied to Fife Council for planning permission for two elements of our latest work at Levenmouth to manage odours from the site.
“These two elements are raising the stacks to have increased dispersion of odours, and the installation of an additional temporary odour control unit to minimise odours until the raised stacks are in place in 2015.
“We believe that these measures will have a positive impact in the surrounding community on odours related to the drying process for the sludge.”
In 2012, a campaign group wore masks and protective suits as part of a protest against the Methil Ming.
A 1,000 signature petition was also handed over to Scottish Water.
Lindsay Roy MP said: “There can be no doubt that Scottish Water has taken very seriously the campaign over the last two years to try and eliminate the Methil Ming once and for all.
“They have done comprehensive research and the £1.5 million they are spending will, we trust, ensure that Levenmouth is no longer plagued by the Ming.”