The Environment Agency said on 3 September 2026 that it was investigating three illegal waste dumps in the North East holding almost 3,500 tonnes of waste. The sites at Peterlee and Hartlepool in County Durham and Callerton in Newcastle had been reported over recent weeks. Officers, working with landowners, shut all three and placed concrete blocks to block access. All three contained shredded household waste, and plans were being made with landowners to clear it.

Mark Rumble, Environmental Crime Team Leader at the Environment Agency, said quick action had prevented further dumping and that investigations were underway. He said enforcement had been stepped up under a 10 Point Plan and that those involved would be held accountable. Minister for Circular Economy and Waste Crime Emma Hardy said the government was shutting down gangs running illegal waste sites and stepping up enforcement.

The agency estimated waste crime costs the UK over £1 billion every year and urged anyone with information to come forward, including anonymously via Crimestoppers.