30,000 tonnes of waste dumped at legally-protected land in Leicestershire
30,000 tonnes of waste have been dumped at legally-protected land in Leicestershire.
The Environment Agency (EA) is investigating after 30,000 tonnes of waste were dumped on legally-protected land in Leicestershire.
The agency said it covers an area the size of a football pitch at the Cave's Inn Pit Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and was covered with soil to hide it.
The EA, which is working with Natural England to investigate, received complaints from members of the public about bad odours coming from the area.
Ian Jones, Area Director, West Midlands at the Environment Agency, said: "This is a sickening case of large-scale illegal waste dumping, and we share the public's disgust.
"We have launched an investigation with Natural England to find the criminals and ensure they pay the price for their despicable actions.
“We ask the public to stay away from the area, which is on private land, while we investigate.
“Anyone with information about this incident should please call our 24-hour hotline.”
Phil Hukin, Principal Manager, Leicestershire and Rutland at Natural England said: “This site contained some of the best remaining areas of neutral marsh in Leicestershire. It is heart-breaking to see one of England’s precious sites of special scientific interest damaged like this.
“Our officers are working closely with Environment Agency colleagues to investigate this appalling crime.”
Along with the criminal investigation, the EA is assessing the waste to ensure there are no further environmental impacts, as well as monitoring local air and water quality.
The EA is appealing for anyone with information to come forward and report it to their incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Waste crime costs the UK over £1 billion every year, harms communities and undermines legitimate businesses.