Bacup | Watchlist Site 7
Site Information
Approximately 30,000 tonnes of household and construction waste were deposited on agricultural land in Bacup, Lancashire without an environmental permit.
The Problem
While there are no current or likely impacts on people or the environment, the site continues to pose a problem due to ongoing illegal waste activity.
Our Action
The operation first came to the attention of the Environment Agency’s Cumbria and Lancashire Area Environmental Crime team in March 2021. Following an investigation, and working with partner organisations, including the local authority, the police and the fire and rescue service, the operators were prosecuted, found guilty and issued suspended sentences in May 2024.
However, waste has continued to be dumped at the site. Site visits have been completed with partners to disrupt activity and we are monitoring environmental risks. A second enforcement investigation has now been completed, with a further trial set for August 2027. The site is currently subject to a restriction order prohibiting further waste disposals.
We will continue to work with our partners to monitor the site, assess and minimise environmental risks and progress legal proceedings. We have also responded to local and national media interest and corresponded with the local MP.