Illegal waste at Hoad’s Wood fully cleared as crackdown continues

The Environment Agency confirmed today that 39,500 tonnes of commercial waste have been removed from Hoad’s Wood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest in Kent. The illegal dumping, which reached up to 15 feet high in places, was carried out by organised criminals targeting the ancient woodland. The clearance operation, led by the Environment Agency and Acumen Waste Services Ltd, involved more than 50 specialist workers. With the waste now removed, access to the site will be restricted to allow natural recovery.

The Environment Agency is collaborating with the Joint Unit for Waste Crime and Kent Police to identify those responsible. Three men have already been arrested as part of the investigation into the illegal dumping at Hoad’s Wood. This follows the Prime Minister’s announcement of a crackdown on waste crime, with coordinated efforts to dismantle organised criminal gangs. The government and Environment Agency are prioritising the restoration of affected sites, including Bolton House Road in Wigan and Midland Road in Bradford.

To deter illegal waste dumping, the government is introducing stricter measures, including increased fines of up to £5,000 for rogue operators. The Environment Agency’s powers to confiscate assets linked to waste crime will also be strengthened under the Crime and Policing Act 2026. A new Waste Crime Crackdown Group, chaired by Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, will coordinate regulatory and law enforcement efforts. These actions aim to remove criminals and corruption from the waste system.

The Environment Agency is urging the public to report any information about illegal waste dumping, including at Hoad’s Wood, via a 24-hour hotline or Crimestoppers. The agency is also suspending or revoking permits and naming illegal operators as part of its 10-Point Plan on waste crime. The crackdown reflects the government’s commitment to restoring communities’ access to protected natural sites.