Walsall Arboretum: Environment Agency orders removal of waste

The Environment Agency has ordered removal of tonnes of material placed during flood-mitigation works at Walsall Arboretum, and clearance has begun; the regulator said no permit or exemption was in place. The agency would not confirm whether fines have been issued or whether the material is contaminated.

The Environment Agency has ordered removal of tonnes of material placed at Walsall Arboretum during recent flood-mitigation works. The council had spread soil that contained items such as clothing, polypipes, glass and building rubble to re-profile the site and prepare for tree planting. The regulator reported no environmental permit or registered exemption was in place for using imported waste at this site. Officers were seen clearing material this week and the council says arrangements are being made to remove, dry and dispose of the material via a licensed waste contractor. Key facts: - The Environment Agency visited the site after a public report and identified those responsible. - The regulator said using waste in construction or landscaping requires a permit or registered exemption, and none was in place here. - Clearance and on-site processing of the material have started following the enforcement notice. - Walsall Council stated the material will be dried in a designated on-site compound and then disposed of by a licensed waste management contractor. - The Environment Agency declined to confirm whether fines have been issued or whether the material is contaminated. Summary: The enforcement notice has prompted removal and on-site processing of the material while the Environment Agency ensures the site is cleared. Whether fines will be applied or whether the material is contaminated was not confirmed by the regulator; further procedural steps are continuing under regulatory oversight.