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Residents in Worcestershire have expressed significant frustration over large amounts of waste being dumped near their homes, with one location described as an “environmental horror.” Investigations are currently underway into two suspected illegal waste sites in the area. One photograph from Evesham shows a substantial quantity of rubbish dumped in a wide trench. Another issue has emerged on a farm in the village of Peopleton, where estate agents are reportedly advising residents against selling their properties due to declining house prices linked to the waste problem.
Wychavon District Council (WDC) first became aware of concerns at the Haselor Lane site in Evesham back in October and confirmed it had identified “potential issues” there, along with broader “waste crime” across the district. The Environment Agency (EA) also acknowledged illegal dumping activity at the second location, Stone Arrow Farm in Peopleton. The village, which has a population of around 640, has seen local residents airing their concerns anonymously to the BBC. One resident said, “There is a level of anger, and you can feel that on a daily basis.”
This resident shared that they had moved to Peopleton six years ago seeking a peaceful environment for their children, away from the pressures of urban life. They commented, “I wanted to give them a nice safe environment and to be able to look out their window and look out over green fields.” However, the ongoing waste dumping has led to growing dissatisfaction, with the resident stating, “You develop a sense of anger because you get to a point where we don’t actually like living where we live.” Another villager described the situation as an “environmental horror,” with some locals feeling trapped because estate agents have warned them their property could lose significant value or struggle to sell.
Linda Robinson, a councillor serving both Worcestershire County Council and Wychavon District Council for Peopleton and surrounding areas, depicted the village as a “very sleepy, rural” community with strong bonds between residents. She noted that for the past 18 months, the area has suffered from “noise, disturbance and dust,” leaving many local people exhausted and feeling stuck. “I think many of them are at the end of their tether and would actually quite like to leave Peopleton and are actually now trapped,” Robinson said. She also highlighted the damaging effect on property values and the difficulty residents face in trying to move away, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency emphasized their commitment to tackling the problem alongside local councils and law enforcement, stating that waste “scars our communities.” They added, “[We are] pulling every lever available to us to disrupt those who profit from the harm illegal waste sites cause.” Wychavon District Council acknowledged the limits of their powers but confirmed that they are collaborating closely with partners, including the EA, and pursuing the necessary legal processes to take enforcement action when warranted.
Nigel Huddlestone, the Member of Parliament for Droitwich and Evesham, expressed strong concern over the ongoing activities at Stone Arrow Farm. He said, “Having met local residents on several occasions about this matter, I know how damaging these activities are for the local community.” Since the issue first arose in autumn last year, Huddlestone has been in contact with various organizations such as district and county councils, the Environment Agency, West Mercia Police, HMRC, the Health and Safety Executive, and the DVSA. He has raised written questions in parliament and taken part in a recent House of Commons debate on illegal waste activity. Committed to resolving the situation, he pledged to continue working with all involved parties “for the benefit of my constituents.
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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