Two men arrested in Cheshire investigation into illegal waste site
Environment Agency and police tackle waste crime at Middlewich farm
Two local men have been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into a large-scale illegal waste site at a farm near Middlewich, Cheshire.
The Environment Agency contacted Cheshire Police on Friday morning, 7th August, to assist with the investigation into the site on Coal Pit Lane.
A 69-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of waste offences. He has since been released on bail while investigations continue.
A second man, aged 37, was arrested on 10th August in a planned follow-up operation on suspicion of similar offences, and has also been bailed.
The site includes various kinds of unlawful waste—such as green garden refuse, construction material, plastics, tyres, shredded waste, and mixed household waste—deposited on agricultural land near the River Wheelock.
This investigation has been ongoing and complex, focusing on the suspected illegal activity at the site.
Tackling Waste Crime
The Environment Agency recently published a 10 Point Plan aimed at addressing waste crime, outlining strategies to prevent illegal activities and enforce regulations more consistently.
Caroline Berry, Area Environment Manager for the Environment Agency, highlighted the seriousness of waste crime: "Waste crime is a scourge on our environment and communities and together with the police we’ve made arrests as part of this investigation."
Sergeant Robert Simpson from Cheshire Police's Rural Crime Team emphasized the potential harm of waste crimes: "Some people 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 cause long lasting environmental damage."
Police and the Environment Agency call for the community's support in combating waste crime.
Community Action Against Illegal Waste
Residents are encouraged to:
Check the public register of waste carriers before using their services to ensure legality.
Ensure land and property are secured to prevent illegal dumping.
Report any suspected waste crime, suspicious activity, or unlicensed operations to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or the Environment Agency incident line at 0800 807060.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are committed to holding responsible parties accountable.