Clearing of Waste Mountain to Happen 'As Soon as Possible'

The Environment Agency (EA) has announced that a massive illegal waste site in Oxfordshire will be removed "as soon as possible." The waste heap stretches approximately 150 meters in length and rises up to 6 meters high. It is situated between the River Cherwell and the A34, close to Kidlington.

In a joint statement, leaders from the EA and Oxfordshire County Council confirmed that they have "committed to a strategic plan exploring all methods for clearing the location." They emphasized their intention to "cooperate closely to ensure the safe removal of the waste promptly" and mentioned that "further information on approaches and timelines will be provided soon."

Simon Hawkins, the EA's regional operations director, along with Robin Rogers, director for economy and place at Oxfordshire County Council, assured that they would "address any risks involved." They added that "authorities have been collaborating to assess potential environmental and community impacts resulting from the illegal Kidlington waste site."

Authorities believe that fly-tippers began dumping waste at this location during the summer. The neighboring landowner reported seeing trucks delivering waste every night for several months. The dumped materials consist mainly of processed household refuse, shredded plastics, polystyrene, tires, and other domestic items.

Last week, a 39-year-old man from the Guildford area was arrested in connection with the waste site but has since been released under investigation.

Author: Sophia Brooks