Two Men Arrested for Illegal Waste Dumping in Cheshire: What You Need to Know

On the morning of Friday, 7 August, the Environment Agency sought the assistance of Cheshire Police in connection with an arrest related to an investigation into a significant illegal waste site located at a farm on Coal Pit Lane, near Middlewich. Both agencies collaborated on-site as part of ongoing enforcement efforts.

A 69-year-old local man was apprehended at the location on suspicion of waste-related offences. He has since been released on bail while inquiries continue. Following this, a second local man, aged 37, was also arrested during a planned follow-up operation on Monday, 10 August, on similar suspicions. He too has been granted bail.

The site in question is characterised by a considerable accumulation of various types of waste, including green garden refuse, construction debris, plastics, tyres, shredded materials, and mixed household waste, all deposited on agricultural land adjacent to the River Wheelock. This location is under a comprehensive investigation concerning suspected illegal activities.

Ongoing Efforts Against Waste Crime

In March, the Environment Agency unveiled its 10 Point Plan aimed at combating waste crime, which delineates strategies for addressing illegal activities and ensuring more consistent enforcement actions.

Caroline Berry, Area Environment Manager for the Environment Agency, emphasised the detrimental impact of waste crime on both the environment and local communities. She stated, “Waste crime is a scourge on our environment and communities, and together with the police, we’ve made arrests as part of this investigation. Waste criminals think they are above the law, particularly on land they may own, but they can be certain we are coming for them.”

Berry further noted that the agency has implemented more rapid and targeted actions to address illegal waste activities and to identify those responsible.

The Broader Impact of Waste Offences

Sergeant Robert Simpson from the Rural Crime Team at Cheshire Police added his perspective, highlighting the misconception that waste crime does not affect anyone. He remarked, “Some may believe that waste crime does not harm anyone; however, this is far from the truth. Not only does it cause a blight on our landscape, but it can also lead to enduring environmental damage.”

Simpson confirmed that two men have been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Middlewich site and expressed the commitment to collaborate closely with partners to ensure accountability for those involved.

He urged anyone with information to come forward and reminded local residents and businesses of the importance of using legitimate waste disposal services. “If you require waste removal, please ensure you engage a licensed waste carrier and always request to see their licence,” he advised.

Protecting the Community from Illegal Waste Disposal

Simpson cautioned that some individuals may falsely claim to possess the necessary licence to dispose of waste, often luring customers with low fees. Unfortunately, this can result in waste being unlawfully dumped, and if linked back to the original owner, it could lead to substantial fines, even if they were not the ones who discarded the rubbish.

The Environment Agency’s 10 Point Plan builds upon existing frameworks and partnerships, enhancing a focused and sustained programme of action that strengthens prevention measures, improves detection capabilities, and ensures more reliable enforcement.

To assist in these efforts, residents are encouraged to take proactive steps, such as:

• Consulting the public register of waste carriers prior to hiring anyone for waste removal; if they are not listed, they are operating illegally.
• Landowners should regularly inspect any vacant properties or land to guarantee that it is secure as they may be held liable for any illegal waste dumped on their premises.
• Reporting suspected waste crime contributes to building a comprehensive understanding that facilitates prompt action. Anyone witnessing illegal dumping, suspicious waste movements, unlicensed operators, or unusually cheap disposal offers should report these incidents to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or the Environment Agency incident line at 0800 807060.