Dumped waste trailers could be linked to organised crime
Environment Agency investigating multiple incidents on dual carriageways near Derby and Nottingham
Last updated 12th Nov 2024
The Environment Agency is investigating after trailers of waste were dumped in lay-bys near Derby and Nottingham.
Several incidents have been reported over the last few weeks, with rubbish weighing up to 24 tonnes a time found alongside dual carriageways.
The waste was either shredded or bailed and officials believe the incidents are linked and could have been orchestrated by an organised crime group.
Among the incidents, four occurred on the A50 near HMP Foston, and one between Sudbury and Doveridge, south-west of Derby.
Two others occurred on opposite carriageways on the A38, north of Burton-upon-Trent, and one on the southbound carriageway of the A38 at Stretton, Burton-upon-Trent.
There has also been two on the northbound A453 near Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station, south of Nottingham.
Some of the trailers contain loose shredded waste, whilst some contain baled waste. Some have also had their tops cut off to make them easier to fill.
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “This kind of waste crime is a blight on our communities, the environment and is costly to the taxpayer who foots the bill to dispose of the trailers and the waste.
“At present, the origin of the waste is unknown and the Environment Agency is investigating to identify the site or sites and those responsible.
“The incidents could well be linked and be orchestrated by an organised crime group.
“Anyone with information is urged to contact our 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60, or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org
“If you see waste trailers in the act of being dumped, report this immediately to the police on 999.”