# Illegal waste crime in England

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/illegal-waste-crime-in-england
> Updated: 2026-09-02T05:00:23.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Authorities in England are addressing a rise in illegal waste crime and organized dumping. In Cheshire, a joint investigation by the Environment Agency and Cheshire Police led to the arrest of two men following the discovery of large-scale illegal dumping at a farm near Middlewich. The site contained various materials, including construction waste, plastics, and tyres.

On a broader scale, the Environment Agency received 10,238 reports of suspected waste crime in 2025, though experts suggest the true scale is underestimated. The issue is estimated to cost the economy approximately £1bn annually. Hotspots have been identified in the West Midlands and Yorkshire, with specific incidents in Bradford involving heavy goods vehicles and potential links to organized criminality. In response to these developments, officials have signaled increased enforcement efforts.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-02: England faces rise in illegal waste crime and organised dumping

England is battling a rise in illegal waste crime, costing the economy £1bn annually. The West Midlands and Yorkshire are major hotspots, with authorities linking large-scale dumping to organised crime.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/england-faces-rise-in-illegal-waste-crime-and-organised-dumping

### 2026-08-11: Cheshire police and Environment Agency arrest two men over illegal waste dumping

Two men have been arrested in Cheshire, UK, following an investigation into large-scale illegal waste dumping at a farm near the River Wheelock.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cheshire-police-and-environment-agency-arrest-two-men-over-illegal-waste-dumping

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Cite as: Illegal waste crime in England. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/illegal-waste-crime-in-england