Hoads Wood, an ancient bluebell woodland in Kent, has been transformed into a "desolate wasteland" due to the illegal dumping of vast amounts of waste. The woodland, which is a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and an area of outstanding natural beauty, is now buried under tens of feet of rubbish, with some areas reaching as high as 20 feet deep.
The Rescue Hoads Wood campaign group, which has been fighting to save the woodland, estimates that around 4 acres (1.6 hectares) of the site is affected, with waste including building materials, household rubbish, and hazardous materials. The group claims that the waste is not only an eyesore but also poses a significant environmental risk, with toxic liquids potentially contaminating the nearby river.
Local residents have reported a strong, unpleasant smell, likened to rotting eggs, which they believe is coming from the waste. One resident described the smell as "a feeling of being poisoned" and said it was so bad that she could smell it from her bedroom.
The campaign group has started a petition, signed by over 6,500 people, calling for an immediate clean-up of the site. They have also written an open letter to the Environment Secretary, Steve Barclay, requesting support and funding to clear the waste.
The Environment Agency (EA) closed the site in January to prevent further waste tipping, and Ashford Borough Council is investigating reports of an "odour nuisance". However, the council has yet to establish that the issues have crossed the threshold of a statutory nuisance.
The EA is continuing its investigations into illegal fly-tipping at the site and is working with other agencies, including Natural England and Kent Police, to bring those responsible to justice. The police have described the size and quantity of waste as "shocking and totally irresponsible".
The situation at Hoads Wood is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of illegal waste dumping on the environment and local communities. It is essential that those responsible are held accountable, and the site is restored to its former beauty. The campaign group and local residents are urging the authorities to take immediate action to clean up the site and prevent further damage to this precious natural resource.
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