Fumes, rats and maggots: peer urges Environment Agency to clear illegal dump in Wigan

A 25,000-tonne illegal waste dump in Wigan, Greater Manchester, is posing a “grave environmental hazard,” prompting calls for urgent action from the chair of the Lords environment committee. The site, located next to a primary school in the village of Bickershaw, has been the subject of growing concern, with issues dating back to late 2024.

Growing Concerns Over Waste Site

Lady Sheehan challenged the Environment Agency’s decision not to clear the dump, particularly given the agency is currently allocating resources to clear a similar illegal waste site in Kidlington, Oxfordshire. Her visit to the site in January revealed conditions that she described as a risk to both the environment and public health.

Public Health and Environmental Risks

The situation is particularly concerning due to the proximity of the waste site to a primary school. Last summer, a fire at the site burned for ten days, forcing the school to close and residents to keep their windows shut due to hazardous fumes. Lady Sheehan warned of the potential for further fires as temperatures rise.

Did You Know? Four men have been arrested in connection with illegal dumping of waste at Kidlington and released while the investigation continues.

The waste site is not considered an “inert facility,” meaning it poses a greater environmental risk. Lady Sheehan highlighted the likelihood of increased rat infestations and the proliferation of flies and maggots as temperatures increase, potentially impacting nearby residences.

Ownership and Responsibility

The largest portion of land comprising the illegal dump has no identified owner, but has reverted to the Duchy of Lancaster through a legal principle called common law escheat. According to a letter from a parliamentary undersecretary of state, the Environment Agency currently has no authority to compel the Duchy of Lancaster to clear the land.

Expert Insight: The situation in Wigan highlights the complex challenges of addressing illegal waste dumping, particularly when land ownership is unclear and regulatory authority is limited. The differing responses to similar sites – Kidlington versus Wigan – suggest that resource allocation and risk assessment play a significant role in enforcement decisions.

The Environment Agency has drawn up plans to remove the waste, but these are contingent on funding becoming available. Criminal investigations are ongoing into the illegal dumping in both Wigan and Kidlington.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the size of the illegal waste dump in Wigan?

The illegal waste dump in Wigan contains approximately 25,000 tonnes of waste.

Who owns the land where the waste is dumped?

The largest area of land on which the waste has been dumped has reverted to the ownership of the Duchy of Lancaster.

Has any action been taken regarding the illegal dumping?

Criminal investigations are ongoing in both Wigan and Kidlington, and four men have been arrested in connection with the dumping in Kidlington, but have been released pending further investigation.

As the situation evolves, will the Environment Agency prioritize the removal of this hazardous waste, and what role will the Duchy of Lancaster play in addressing this environmental concern?

Fumes, rats and maggots: peer urges Environment Agency to clear illegal dump in Wigan | Waste