A major waste removal operation at an illegal dumping site in Gloucester has been temporarily halted following the discovery of asbestos among the dumped materials.
Gloucester City Council initiated a multi-agency effort on July 22 to clear the extensive illegal waste accumulated at Severnside Farm, located behind St Oswalds retail park. This follows months of enforcement actions to address the significant environmental violation.
Despite formal notices demanding immediate waste removal, cessation of waste burning, and prevention of further illegal dumping, the site’s operators failed to comply within the set deadlines. As a result, the council employed its legal powers to proceed with the cleanup.
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Working closely with the Environment Agency, Gloucestershire Constabulary, and Ubico, the council has overseen the removal of approximately 75 tonnes of waste so far, with an estimated 250 tonnes still remaining. The plan also includes securing the site to prevent unauthorized access and deter future illegal dumping.
However, discovery of asbestos-containing materials in the dumped waste forced the operation to pause. Asbestos is a hazardous substance requiring specialist handling and disposal protocols to ensure safety. Consequently, the council has installed concrete blocks at the entrance to secure the area.
Specialist contractors will now assess the extent of asbestos contamination before the cleanup can resume safely. The council emphasized there is no risk to nearby residents but condemned the irresponsible disposal that put others at risk.
James Dykes, enforcement and regulation service manager at Gloucester City Council, said: “Those trying to avoid the legal costs of safe asbestos disposal are acting recklessly, endangering themselves and others. We are fully committed to clearing this site and protecting the local community.”
Inspector James O’Neill from the Gloucester neighbourhood policing team confirmed that heavy plant machinery used in the illegal operation was seized. Two vehicles carrying waste to the site were stopped by police and Environment Agency officials—one driver has been reported for prosecution, and the other vehicle seized for destruction.
The council reminded residents and businesses that waste must only be given to licensed waste carriers to avoid prosecution for illegal dumping. Waste removed will be examined for evidence to identify those responsible.
The council thanked the community for their patience as it finalizes next steps to safely resolve this situation and continue enforcement against illegal waste activities.