Illegal Calderdale waste dumping ground shut down
The Environment Agency (EA) has blocked access to a former Calderdale quarry where waste has been illegally dumped.
The organisation says it is “coming down hard” on waste crime as part of it’s 10 point plan – and this is an example.
A court order is now in place preventing the dumping of waste at Calder Quarry in Elland.
The restriction order bans waste from being imported on to the site and access to the land is also prohibited, subject to certain exceptions.
Anyone breaching the order is committing a criminal offence, says the EA.
The order was obtained at West Yorkshire Magistrates’ Court on September 3, and will be in place for six months.
A criminal investigation into suspected illegal waste activity is ongoing, says the agency.
Ben Hocking, Yorkshire area environment manager for the EA, said: “Residents should not have to put up with everything that comes with illegal waste dumps, including the awful smells.
“We acted on reports from the community and our inspections confirmed waste was dumped at this site in recent weeks.
“We’ve taken action to shut it down while our criminal investigation continues.
“As part of our 10 point plan we are coming down hard on those we suspect of being involved in waste crime.
“Where we find evidence of illegal activity, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action.”
The Environment Agency started its investigation into the site in December 2025, when local residents reported waste tipping at the quarry with odours described as “rubbish and rotting food.”
Their assessment revealed thousands of tonnes of waste had been dumped, with some of it buried.
The agency says it is important the public continue to report suspected waste crime.
People can report illegal dumping, suspicious waste movements or burning, unlicensed operators, or unusually cheap disposal offers to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or the EA incident line on 0800 807060.