The Environment Agency has launched a major investigation into the "sickening" suspected illegal waste dumping of shredded rubbish discovered at Cave's Inn Pits, near Shawell, Leicestershire. A criminal investigation has also been initiated into the alleged large-scale rubbish dumping at the Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Shocking aerial photographs reveal how 30,000 tonnes of domestic waste, the size of a football pitch, has been illegally tipped at a protected location close to the small Midlands village. The investigation comes after local residents reported a foul odour that led to the discovery of the enormous mound of refuse, which was partially hidden under layers of earth.
The Environment Agency and Natural England have urged members of the public to avoid the area, which is on private land, while they conduct their inquiries. The waste is causing contamination at the beauty spot, designated as an SSSI for its rare neutral marsh habitat.
Residents Express Anger and Concern
Local residents have condemned those behind the dumping for destroying their scenic village. Sallyann Bundock, 56, who has lived in the area for 20 years, said: "It's really sad to see what they have done up there. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and lots of people walk their dogs around the fields nearby - but now it just stinks and can't go up there."
She added: "We started noticing a really pungent smell probably around Easter time. It must have taken thousands of trucks to have unloaded all that - yet the landowner doesn't seem to know anything about it. It's really disappointing to say the least, when the wind is blowing the smell is really bad. I don't know how they can even remove that much waste or where it will even be taken to."
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "It's disgusting there's an illegal dump so close to our pretty village. There's a tip not that far away so there's really no excuse for illegal dumping. It has left a really unpleasant smell too."
Agencies Respond and Urge Public to Stay Away
Alongside the criminal probe, the Environment Agency confirmed it is monitoring local air and water quality to prevent any further environmental damage. Ian Jones, area director for the West Midlands at the Environment Agency, commented: "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."
Phil Hukin, principal manager for Leicestershire and Rutland at Natural England, remarked: "This site contained some of the best remaining areas of neutral marsh in Leicestershire. It is heartbreaking 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."
The Environment Agency is urging anyone with information to contact their incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
