Illegal Hartlepool waste dump closed down after 2,500 tonnes of rubbish is discovered
An investigation has started after an illegal waste dump in Hartlepool was uncovered.
The Hart Quarry site – containing an estimated 2,500 tonnes of rubbish – now has concrete blocks restricting access to it following action by the Environment Agency.
Another illegal dump at the former Dewhirst site, in Thorpe Road, Peterlee, and a third at Callerton, near Newcastle Airport, are also now closed.
Both contained around 400 tonnes of waste.
The Environment Agency is now working with landowners to clear the mounds of shredded household rubbish and investigations are now under way to discover who is responsible for dumping the waste.
It is also stepping up action on waste crime as part of its new 10 point plan.
Measures include acting early to address illegal activity before it becomes established.
Mark Rumble, environmental crime team leader at the Environment Agency, said: “We’ve taken quick action to block access to these sites to prevent further dumping and investigations are underway.
“Illegal waste sites are a blight on our communities and residents should not have to live next to eyesores and put up with the smells.
“We have stepped up enforcement action with our 10 point plan and I want to make it clear that we’ll do everything possible to ensure those involved in dumping this waste will be held accountable.”
The Environment Agency said illegally dumped waste poses a risk to communities and the environment while undermining legitimate businesses which dispose of waste responsibly.
It is also expensive for landowners and in total costs the United Kingdom more than £1 billion every year.
Circular economy and waste crime minister Emma Hardy said: “My message to the criminals involved in waste is clear: We are coming for you and we will take your profits and we will use them to clean up because the times of people getting away with these crimes are over.”
The agency is urging anyone with information about the three sites, about those involved in waste crime in the region or anyone who sees suspicious activity, such as unusual HGV movements onto disused or open land, to get in touch.
Mr Rumble said: “Acting quickly gives us the best chance of investigating effectively and preventing further illegal dumping.”
Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or the Environment Agency on 0800 807060.