ENVIRONMENT Protection Authority boss Nial Finegan is satisfied the removal of stock still trapped in the Beechworth’s burnt out supermarket is being carried out safely and quickly.
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The EPA chief visited the supermarket site on Friday to check on the stench coming from the delicatessen area which has been off limits to contractors hired for the clean-up from the blaze a fortnight ago.
Milk and other perishable liquids were taken out last Saturday and contractors have been able to remove beer, wine, ice cream and margarine in recent days.
Damaged stock is being taken to Albury tip, but the delicatessen is still a no-go zone.
Mr Finegan said the smell was similar to sour milk, but cooler than average conditions this week had helped suppress the stink.
“Some people will find it offensive,” he said.
“But it all comes down the structural safety of the building.
"We don’t want people trying to get on with the job and putting themselves in harms way.
"It is about getting on with the job as safely and quickly as possible
"All indications are that is exactly what is happening.”
Fridges have been removed from the site with the EPA confirming one report about smell coming from the supermarket had been received from the community in recent days.
Indigo Shire also had received no official complaints about odour.
The EPA has requested any odour concerns be reported immediately to the EPA pollution hotline on 1300 372842.
