Following the inspection of the site at Monkton Sidings, Fineshade, Corby, 2 arrests were made and a further individual was interviewed under caution as a volunteer.

As a result of the investigation, Stephen Lack (68) was charged with operating a waste management facility without an environmental permit.

He appeared before the Northampton Magistrates’ Court, in custody, on 16th September.

His case was sent to the Northampton Crown Court for trial and he was remanded in custody pending his first Crown Court appearance on 14 October 2020.

The Environment Agency reminds everyone that they have a legal duty to ensure they are giving their waste to registered carriers and it is taken to authorised permitted sites for treatment or disposal.

Yvonne Daly, Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

“The operation of a waste site without regard for the environment and the law have the potential to harm our natural resources, blight communities and undermine the legitimate businesses that do follow the rules.

“Our role is to protect the environment for people and wildlife, so we won’t hesitate to take action against those who put it at risk. And to businesses flouting the rules our message is clear: you won’t get away with it.

“Thanks to Northamptonshire Police for the support and assistance they have given us in this operation.”

Anyone who suspects illegal waste activity is reminded to report it to our 24 hour hotline by calling 0800 80 70 60, or anonymously contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

You can check your waste collectors waste carriers registration at https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/search-waste-carriers-brokers or call 03708 506 506.

Earlier this year the Environment Agency and partners launched the Joint Unit for Waste Crime, aiming to stop serious and organised crime in the UK Waste Industry. You can find out more about the initiative on our website.