A major cleanup operation targeting hundreds of tonnes of illegally dumped waste in Gloucester has been temporarily suspended following the discovery of asbestos. The project, initiated by Gloucester City Council, began on July 22 at Severnside Farm, located behind St Oswalds retail park, after months of enforcement efforts addressing extensive illegal waste activities on the site.
The council, working alongside the Environment Agency, Gloucestershire Constabulary, and Ubico, had started removing waste and implementing measures to prevent further dumping and unauthorized access. Notices had been served to cease waste burning and compel removal, but non-compliance led the council to use its legal powers to intervene directly.
Despite successfully removing about 75 tonnes of waste in the first two days, the operation halted immediately once asbestos-containing materials were uncovered within the illegally dumped waste. Over 250 tonnes of waste remain on the site. To ensure safety, concrete blocks are now being placed at the entrance to curb unauthorized entry.
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The council will engage specialist asbestos removal contractors to evaluate the contamination and determine the safest removal methods. Asbestos is a hazardous material that demands careful handling and legal disposal by licensed experts due to serious health risks.
Officials emphasized that residents living nearby are not at risk but strongly condemned those who irresponsibly disposed of asbestos without professional assistance. Improper handling puts both the dumpers and others involved in the illegal activity at significant risk.
James Dykes, enforcement and regulation service manager at Gloucester City Council, stated, “Avoiding the cost of safe asbestos disposal is reckless and dangerous. Our commitment remains firm to clear the site and safeguard the community. Once asbestos issues are addressed, we will continue addressing the remaining illegal waste problems.”
Inspector James O’Neill of Gloucester’s neighbourhood policing team revealed enforcement actions included securing the site, issuing notices to offenders, seizing a piece of heavy machinery used in the illegal dumping, and stopping vehicles transporting waste to the location. One driver faces prosecution summons, while another vehicle was seized and will be crushed.
The operation underscores the legal obligation for households and businesses to transfer waste only to authorized, registered carriers. Both the original waste owners and unlicensed operators face potential prosecution and fines for illegal dumping. Waste removed will be examined for clues to identify and hold responsible parties accountable.
The council thanked local residents for their patience while they plan next steps to safely resume the cleanup and enforce waste disposal laws.