Environment Agency Intervenes at Walsall Arboretum Over Hazardous Waste
The Environment Agency has issued a formal directive to Walsall Council, compelling the immediate removal of extensive waste material deposited at Walsall Arboretum, a cherished local beauty spot. This action follows alarming reports from residents, including incidents of dogs sustaining injuries due to the hazardous debris.
Contaminated Waste Poses Significant Risks
Walsall Council had initially spread the material, which contains a concerning mix of clothing, polypipes, glass fragments, and building rubble, across a substantial area within the arboretum. The council stated these works were part of a site re-profiling initiative aimed at mitigating flood risks and preparing the land for future tree planting projects.
However, the Environment Agency determined that the material does not meet the required environmental standards, prompting the removal order. A council spokesperson confirmed that arrangements are now underway to extract the waste, dry it in a designated on-site compound, and dispose of it through a licensed waste management contractor.
Resident Outcry and Environmental Concerns
Local resident Karl Delmas, who works in construction, raised the alarm after noticing the waste appear several weeks ago. He reported the issue to the Environment Agency, expressing grave concerns over public safety and environmental contamination.
"This is unacceptable. Somebody is going to get hurt. Dogs are getting hurt," Mr. Delmas emphasized. "There's easily 100 tonnes of material, and it's absolutely full of rubbish. It's contaminated waste that needs to be removed and fenced off because people can freely walk across it."
He further highlighted environmental damage, noting, "During last week's rainfall, visible black trickles from the waste were observed flowing into the nearby brook."
Official Responses and Next Steps
An Environment Agency spokesperson stated, "Following a public report, our officers visited the site, identified those responsible, and are now ensuring the complete removal of all waste materials."
Walsall Council has acknowledged the situation, with a spokesperson explaining, "It has recently been identified that the material used for re-profiling does not meet the required standard. These removal works will be completed as soon as practicable, considering current weather and ground conditions. Suitable alternative material will be sourced to allow the flood mitigation and tree planting project to proceed."
The cleanup operation is prioritized to address both safety hazards and ecological protection, with the council committed to restoring the arboretum's status as a safe and scenic community asset.
