A major investigation has been launched after “sickening” illegal waste was dumped at a site near Rugby.
Around 30,000 tonnes of illegal waste were uncovered at Cave’s Inn Pits, an official Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) near Shawell.
The site is well-concealed so the discovery was only made after members of the public complained about the stench coming from the waste.
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Environment Agency and Natural England officers visited the site last week and discovered significant amounts of household waste dumped there, causing pollution to the SSSI.
The two bodies have now launched an investigation.
The site, which sits on the Leicestershire border with Warwickshire, was believed to hold around 30,000 tonnes of shredded waste in layers, covered with soil. The public were urged to stay away from the site until the investigation is complete.
The Environment Agency was also assessing the waste to ensure there was no further environmental impacts and was monitoring air and water quality.
Ian Jones, Area Director, West Midlands at the Environment Agency, said: “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. Anyone with information about this incident should please call our 24-hour hotline.”
Phil Hukin, Principal Manager, Leicestershire and Rutland at Natural England said: “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 appealing for anyone with information to come forward and report it to their incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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