Two arrests over illegal waste dump on Cheshire farm
Fly-tipped garden and industrial waste on the farm © Environment Agency Two men have been arrested as part of an ongoing Environment Agency (EA) investigation into illegal dumping on a farm in Cheshire.
It follows joint investigation with Cheshire Police into a large-scale illegal waste site at a farm on Coal Pit Lane near Middlewich.
A 69-year-old local man was arrested at the site on Friday 7 August on suspicion of waste offences. He has since been released on bail while investigations continue.
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A second local man, aged 37, was also arrested on suspicion of waste offences at the same site in a follow-up operation on Monday (10 August). He has also been bailed.
The site includes a significant amount of green garden waste, construction waste, plastics, tyres, shredded waste and mixed household waste.
All the material had been deposited on agricultural land next to the River Wheelock.
Sgt Robert Simpson, of Cheshire Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “As part of the investigation into a site in Middlewich, we have arrested two men.
“We will be working closely with our partners to ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
He urged anyone with information to contact police and reminded local residents and businesses that they should only use legitimate waste removal companies and ask to see their licence to dispose of waste.
The EA said the farm has been the subject of a complex investigation into suspected illegal activity.
As inquiries remain ongoing, police said they are unable to comment on the occupations of the two men arrested or the ownership of the farm.
‘Check land regularly’
The EA urged landowners to ensure they check any empty land and property regularly to make sure it is secure. They can be liable for illegal waste dumped on their land.
To report illegal dumping, suspicious waste movements or burning, unlicensed operators, or unusually cheap disposal offers contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or the Environment Agency incident line on 0800 807 060.