The Environment Agency (EA) today announced (July 9) that it took possession of the vehicle as part of its inquiry into an illegal waste site, believed to be linked to waste movements at a Midland Road dump in Bradford, where several thousand tonnes of mixed household and commercial waste have been unlawfully deposited.
The HGV was seized on July 7 in a rural area between Todmorden and Bacup, near the Yorkshire-Lancashire border.
Our investigation continues at pace
Ben Hocking, area environment manager at the Environment Agency, said: “Our investigation into this disgusting illegal dumping continues at pace.
“We are following a number of leads and this has included seizing an HGV connected to waste movements.
“Waste crime will not be tolerated and we’ll continue to work closely with our partners to track down those involved.”
The illegal waste site was first reported to the Environment Agency on July 1.
The EA is working alongside Bradford Council, West Yorkshire Police, and West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service to gather evidence and assess the volume and type of waste dumped.
Officers have identified the landowner and are in contact to ensure the site is made secure.
Can you help catch the culprits?
The Environment Agency is urging members of the public with information to come forward and support the investigation.
The HGV seizure forms part of the EA’s wider crackdown on waste crime under its new 10 Point Plan, which aims to intervene early and prevent illegal operations from becoming established.
The plan emphasises prevention, improved detection, and stronger enforcement, building on existing partnerships and actions.
How to avoid committing waste crime
The Environment Agency has issued guidance to help the public avoid contributing to waste crime.
Members of the public are encouraged to check the public register of waste carriers before paying anyone to remove waste, as unregistered operators are illegal.
Landowners are advised to regularly check and secure empty land or property to prevent unauthorised dumping, as they may be held liable.
Suspected waste crime can be reported to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or to the Environment Agency’s incident line on 0800 807060.
The Environment Agency has reinforced its commitment to tackling environmental offences through early intervention, increased detection efforts, and consistent enforcement actions, as outlined in its 10 Point Plan.
The investigation remains ongoing, with officers continuing to follow leads and gather evidence related to the illegal operation.
