Hoads Wood site closed down by the Environment Agency

• The Environment Agency has blocked access to a large illegal waste site in Hoads Wood Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Ashford, Kent, to prevent further illegal tipping

• A court order is now in place prohibiting anyone from entering or depositing waste on the site in Hoads Wood

• The restriction order was obtained at Medway Magistrates Court to restrict access to the site at a hearing on 16 January 2024

The Environment Agency has now locked the site’s access gate, placed concrete blocks to prevent access and a warning notice at the entrance. Anyone entering the land without reasonable excuse or written permission from the Environment Agency will be committing a criminal offence, as will anyone who tampers with the lock or notice.

Matt Higginson, Environment Manager at the Environment Agency said: “We know illegal waste activity harms the environment and has a devastating effect on communities. Our priority is protecting the local community and environment. This order has been secured following the local community’s concerns and the environmental impact of the tipping of waste at the site.

“To disrupt the illegal dumping of waste at the site, we inspect the site regularly, and working with Kent Police's Rural Task Force, we have had a regular presence in the Hoads Wood area, stopping waste carrier vehicles to check compliance.

“The Environment Agency’s powers to stop waste crime include prosecuting those we believe are behind dumping waste illegally, which can lead to prison sentences. Among other measures, we can use court orders to close sites. We know illegal waste activity harms the environment and has a devastating effect on communities.

“While most waste sites are operated responsibly, we will take action against those who flout the law.

“If people see or suspect illegal tipping of waste, they can report it to us on our 24/7 Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or report it anonymously to Crimestoppers 0800 555111.”

Kent Police's Rural Task Force team assisting with the investigation. Images courtesy of the Environment Agency

Sergeant Darren Walshaw of Kent Police's Rural Task Force said: “The size of this site and the amount of waste illegally dumped there is shocking and totally irresponsible.

“Fly-tipping is often linked to other forms of criminality and we are therefore assisting the Environment Agency and other partner agencies with their investigation and associated enforcement action.”

Article courtesy of the Environment Agency