Environment Agency launches investigation after 1,000 tonnes of waste dumped on land in Birstall
The Environment Agency has launched an investigation into the illegal dumping of waste on land in Birstall.
Officers attended on November 4 following reports waste had been dumped on land off Bankwood Way, near industrial and commercial premises.
A spokesperson said an estimated 1,000 tonnes of shredded household and commercial waste has been dumped.
Environment Agency (EA) investigators are following up several lines of enquiry to track down those responsible, and have worked with the landowner to secure the site and prevent further deposits.
They are also working with partners at West Yorkshire Police and Kirklees Council to assess and monitor the site.
The EA is appealing for information from the public. Anyone who saw anything or has information which may help the investigation is asked to get in touch as soon as possible.
Ben Hocking, area environment manager at the EA, said: “We’ve started an investigation into this waste dumping, making enquiries with neighbouring businesses and working with the landowner to ensure the site is secured.
“Illegal waste sites cause misery for communities and are a blight on the environment.
“We have stepped up enforcement action with our ten point plan and we’re doing everything possible to ensure we can hold those involved in dumping this waste accountable.”
The EA’s ten point plan aims to build on existing work and partnerships with “a focused, sustained programme of action to strengthen prevention, improve detection and deliver more consistent enforcement”.
Waste Minister Emma Hardy said: “The action taken to secure this site and prevent further dumping is an example of our crackdown on criminals involved in waste crime.
“This government is taking decisive action to stop waste crime, putting more officers on the frontline and using drones to find the thugs behind these atrocious sites.
“My message to waste criminals is clear: there is nowhere to hide.”
Anyone with information about the Birstall waste dumping is asked to contact the Environment Agency incident line on 0800 807060. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.