The operator of a poor performing waste site that has caused misery for local residents has had its environmental permit revoked after a major day of action targeting waste crime at West Lancashire industrial estates.
It comes following reports from residents in Simonswood that piles of illegal waste have been causing horrid smells and dust issues – with some parents choosing to stop their children playing outside.
Monday’s (23 March) Environment Agency led multi-agency crack down at Simonswood and Williams Brothers Industrial Estates in Simonswood, West Lancashire (bordering Kirkby) – saw two illegal waste sites shut down.
In follow up action, the Environment Agency has served a Revocation Notice on Windmill Services Ltd as part of its enforcement efforts to reduce the impact activities at the site are having on the local community.
After the notice takes effect, Windmill Services Ltd must cease all activities previously allowed by the permit – or risk facing prosecution.
The site hasn’t been operational since November following Environment Agency enforcement action. An investigation into permit breaches is ongoing.
During the day of action, the Environment Agency, supported by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), West Lancashire Borough Council and Knowsley Council, also inspected five permitted waste sites.
It also included DVSA vehicle checks and drone support from the Joint Unit for Waste Crime (JUWC).
The action follows last week’s announcement of new waste crime powers and a package of measure to target illegal dumping.
John Neville, Area Environment Manager for the Environment Agency in Cumbria and Lancashire, said: “We are taking faster, more targeted action against those in the waste sector who we suspect are breaking the rules.
“Where we find evidence of illegal activity, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action – including revoking permits to remove operators from the waste sector and shutting down illegal operations.
“Waste crime causes real harm, blighting communities, causing pollution and undercutting legitimate businesses. Together with other agencies we are determined to stop it.”
Dale Milburn, Knowsley Council’s Director for Place, added: “I welcome this crackdown by the Environment Agency. We’ve been lobbying hard over a number of years on behalf of our residents who have had to endure the effects of this waste for far too long. This week’s actions signify the start of concerted efforts by both the Environment Agency and Lancashire County Council to ensure the proper regulation of these sites and estates which have blighted the lives of our communities for too long.”
During the day of action, two waste sites were found operating without a permit, one accepting household skip waste and another taking in inert material. The Environment Agency has required all activity to stop, and the waste be removed.
The operator of a third site received guidance to clear a small amount of tipped waste. Pollution prevention advice was given to the operators of two other sites.
At the permitted sites, where environmental permits authorise waste operations to be carried out under conditions which prevent harm to the environment and human health, there will be some follow up action.
The Environment Agency has ensured that the operator of one of the sites is now compliant with its permit, and another has started moving waste from its site.
Anyone with information about suspected waste crime can report it to the Environment Agency’s 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.