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DATE LPA BECAME AWARE OF BREACH
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SITE ADDRESS |
NATURE OF CASE |
CURRENT POSITION |
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1/1 |
June 2021 |
Spring Valley Farm, West Street Lane, Maynards Green |
Importation and deposit of household waste. |
A complaint was received that household waste was being imported into this site in small vans by different operators and deposited.
A joint site visit was carried out with the Environment Agency, which confirmed the details contained within the complaint. A meeting was also held with the landowner, who agreed to halt any further importation into the site and to clear the site of the waste that had already been imported.
There were a number of issues relating to the site and, due to the landowner’s circumstances, multiple agencies worked with the landowner and his family to ensure that no further waste materials were imported.
Further site visits and meetings with the landowner were undertaken, which confirmed that the importation of waste into the site had ceased. No further enforcement action is required, and officers will continue to periodically monitor the site to ensure the importation of waste materials to the site does not resume.
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1/2 |
November 2021
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Hazelwood, Cansiron Lane, Cowden, Edenbridge |
Importation and deposit of waste (soils) |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising soils and hardcore, were being imported into the site and deposited. A site visit was undertaken, during the course of which a meeting was held with the landowner. It was noted that a significant quantity of soils and hardcore had been imported into the site. The landowner explained that some of the materials were required to build up pond banks on the site, and more material was required to landscape a steep bank on the site.
A further site meeting was arranged with the landowner and removal of the waste and remedial works agreed.
A final site visit has been carried out which confirmed that the imported materials had been removed, and the land restored as agreed. The breach of planning control has been resolved and no further enforcement action is required.
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1/3 |
March 2022
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Land to the rear of Sussex Oak, Oak Lane, Blackham |
Importation and deposit of waste – soils. |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising soils, were being imported and deposited at the site. A site visit was carried out and a chance meeting with the operator and landowner held. It was identified that subsoil had been imported to the site, with the intention to level an area of land and re-plant it as an orchard and mixed leaf woodland.
Following the site visit, a formal letter was sent to the landowner and a response received. According to the landowner, since owning the property, he had spent several years clearing historic waste tipped on the site, which resulted in an area of uneven and unproductive land. The landowner’s intention was to restore this land and a small amount of topsoil was required to complete this.
The remedial and restoration works have been completed and no further action is required.
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1/4 |
June 2022
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Old Concrete Works, Tilley Lane, Boreham Street |
Deposit/burning of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to and burnt at the site. An initial site visit was carried out but access to the site was denied. Following discussions with the landowner, a comprehensive site inspection was arranged and undertaken. This identified a significant quantity of waste materials that appeared to have been imported to the site, although the landowner stated that some were site derived following excavations and the construction of a new barn on the site, as well as waste concrete products left at the site from its former use.
Following the site visit and meeting, a letter was sent to the landowner and a response received. The importation of any further waste materials subsequently ceased.
Due to the complexity and scale of the site, a further site meeting was held with the landowner/their representatives and additional officers from this Authority. This meeting identified specific remedial works to be undertaken to address some of the breaches of planning control.
An Enforcement Notice specifying a detailed package of remedial measures together with timescales, was served on the landowners and no appeal made against it. The Notice took effect on 24 May 2024. Due to the scale of the measures to be carried out, a period of 18 months for compliance has been given, which means the Notice must be complied with in terms of the works by 24 November 2025.
Officers maintained regular contact with the representatives of the landowners and have undertaken regular site visits to monitor progress. Following a recent site visit, it was confirmed that the requirements of the Enforcement Notice had been complied with.
The breach of planning control has therefore been resolved, and no further action is required. The Enforcement Notice remains extant, and officers will periodically inspect the site to ensure there are no breaches of the Enforcement Notice.
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1/5 |
October 2022 |
East Lodge, Glynleigh Road, Westham |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
Complaints were received regarding waste being imported to the site. A site visit was carried out, which confirmed the complaints. Contact was made with the landowner, who, under threat of enforcement action, was advised to cease the importation of any further materials. A further site meeting was then held with the landowner, who stated that the materials had been imported in order to repair tracks and raise levels of land prone to waterlogging. Processing of some of the materials was also being undertaken to make them suitable for use.
No further materials were imported and several site meetings held with the landowner/their representatives. There was a suspicion that the imported materials could have been contaminated and soil testing was carried out on the imported materials, the results of which concluded that the materials were not suitable for use on the land.
The stockpiles of materials have subsequently been removed to authorised sites for disposal and a final site visit confirmed that the waste materials had been removed. The breach of planning control has been resolved and no further action is required.
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1/6 |
April 2023 |
Bellhurst Farm, Tilley Lane, Boreham Street |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received regarding waste materials being imported to the site. During an initial site visit, officers were unable to gain entry. Contact was made with the landowner and a joint site visit with an officer from the Environment Agency arranged.
During the course of the visit, it was noted that waste materials, comprising mostly hardcore, but including plastics and metals, had been imported to the site. The landowner stated that he had planning permission for a barn and the materials were to provide a base/foundation for that. There were various other works being undertaken, including excavations for the creation of a car parking area and the siting of storage containers.
Following the site visit, further investigations took place. Officers from Wealden District Council also visited the site and were pursuing action regarding changes of use and other unauthorised developments. Officers from Wealden District Council also confirmed that there was no planning permission for a new barn, despite the assertions of the landowner.
Officers worked closely with Wealden District Council, who have now acted in respect of the unauthorised development at the site, including the imported materials. At this stage, the various issues pertaining to the site are being dealt with by Wealden District Council and no further action is required by this Authority.
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1/7 |
December 2023
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Malling Farm, Down Street, Piltdown, |
Importation and deposit of waste soils. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to the site. A site visit was carried out and a hectic scene involving lorries entering/leaving the site was observed, along with the deposited material. Immediate steps were taken including discussions with the landowner, who agreed to cease the importation of any further materials.
A further site meeting was held with the landowner, who explained that the soil had been imported to improve and extend an existing track and to raise/level a boggy area. The materials used were clean soils. A programme of remedial works was agreed.
A final inspection has been carried out which confirmed that the agreed works have been satisfactorily carried out. The breach of planning control has been resolved and no further enforcement action is required.
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1/8 |
May 2024 |
The Old Barn, Rye Harbour Road, Rye |
Unauthorised waste transfer station. |
This matter was referred by Rother District Council. Complaints had been received regarding a number of issues at the site, including the importation, deposit and storage of asbestos and other waste materials along with an unauthorised scaffolding business and unauthorised residential use.
A site visit was carried out and it was noted that a large amount of waste was stored at the site, including a significant amount of asbestos. Contact was made with the landowner, who was advised that no further waste should be imported and that the site must be cleared of all waste with a specialist contractor required for the asbestos.
The site has been closely monitored along with Officers from Rother District Council. Additionally, warning signs were displayed at the site entrance stating that the site was being watched for unauthorised activities. Tipping appeared to have stopped following these interventions.
Due to there being multiple breaches at the site, Case Law dictated that enforcement action would fall to the District Council. Accordingly, Rother District Council, with support from this Authority, has subsequently taken formal enforcement action and served notices on the landowner, including to address the waste related activities at the site. At this stage, therefore, there is no further enforcement action required by this Authority, although officers continue to support Rother District Council with regard to the site.
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1/9 |
October 2024 |
Pyrite, The Coal Yard, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham. |
Burning of tyres. |
A complaint was received that tyres were being burnt at the site and photographic evidence supported this. The site has planning permission (WD/831/CM) for tyre recycling and crumb/bale production. However, no burning of waste/tyres is permitted.
An initial site visit was carried out, which identified evidence of the burning of tyres. Following correspondence, warnings and discussions with the operator, the burning of tyres ceased.
Further monitoring visits have been carried out and no further evidence found of burning taking place.
The breach of planning control has been resolved and no further action is required. The site will be monitored as part of the Council’s Site Monitoring Policy. In the meantime, the site will be monitored periodically to ensure that the burning of tyres does not resume.
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1/10 |
October 2024
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Morgans Farm, Cowbeech Road, Rushlake Green, Heathfield |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to the site and deposited on the land. The complaint also referred to run-off from the site causing a pollution incident further downstream. This aspect was already being pursued by the Environment Agency with a view to a prosecution.
Wealden District Council (WDC) had also been heavily involved with the site with various consents having been granted in relation to agricultural barns/tracks/works, along with enforcement proceedings.
A joint site inspection with officers from the Environment Agency, the operator and landowner was carried out. The landowner advised that a track, which had been laid using imported waste materials adjacent to some Ancient Woodland was due to be removed following a requirement from WDC. Other remedial works required by WDC were also to be undertaken.
Since the joint site inspection, proposals for a new track and farmyard manure storage area and new agricultural building have been considered by WDC.
Activities at the site involving the importation of materials are related to various consents granted by WDC or are Permitted Development. Therefore, there is no breach of planning control relevant to this Authority, as Waste Planning Authority, and no further action is required. Notwithstanding we have given advice to the owner and Officers will continue to maintain contact with WDC and continually review the situation.
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1/11 |
November 2024
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Hole Farm, Westfield Lane, Westfield |
Breach of Conditions attached to planning permission RR/724/CM (Site layout, height of stockpiles and plant/machinery).
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During a monitoring visit, it was noted that there were significant breaches of the planning permission for the site, including site layout, heights of stockpiled materials and additional machinery.
Under threat of enforcement action, the operator submitted a planning application (RR/899/CM) to regularise aspects of the layout and use of the site. The application was considered by the Planning Committee at its meeting on 17 September 2025 and planning permission granted.
No further enforcement action is required. However, the site will be closely monitored. Needless to say full compliance with the Planning Permission will be required. In the event of non-compliance it is highly like that enforcement action will be taken.
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1/12 |
January 2025 |
Bell Reed Farm, Dads Hill, Cross-in-Hand, Heathfield |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported, deposited and stored at the site. An inspection was carried out and although it was not possible to gain access to the site, it was evident that waste was being imported.
Contact was made with the landowner, who stated that various parties had used the land for the storage of various items, including waste. The planning/enforcement position was set out and a timescale for the clearance of the site agreed.
A further site inspection has been carried out which confirmed that the site had been satisfactorily cleared, and no further waste materials imported. The breach of planning control has been resolved and no further action is required.
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1/13 |
January 2025 |
Land off Chiddingly Road, Horam |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received regarding the alleged importation and deposit of waste at the site. Officers attended and it was observed that one load of soil had been deposited. Contact was made with the operator who advised the deposit was a one off owing to the fact he had been unable to make it that day to a lawful site for disposal.
The material has subsequently been removed and no further complaints have been received. No further action is required.
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1/14 |
March 2025 |
Great Cow Farm, Cowbeech Road, Cowbeech |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that lorries were running into the site and depositing significant quantities of waste materials. A site visit was carried out but circumstances dictated that it was not appropriate to access the site at that time. However, the driver of a tipper lorry leaving the site was spoken to. He confirmed that soils and aggregates were being imported for the purposes of building a base for a barn. In this respect officers liaised both with Wealden District Council and the haulier.
A letter was sent to the landowner and a site meeting subsequently held. The materials had been imported in relation to a matter dealt with by Wealden District Council for a steel framed barn. They were clean and quantities were considered proportionate relative to the consent granted. Therefore, there is no further action required by this Authority, in its capacity as Waste Planning Authority.
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DATE LPA BECAME AWARE OF BREACH
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SITE ADDRESS |
NATURE OF CASE |
CURRENT POSITION |
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2/1 |
April 2025 |
Maddomswood Farm, Hoath Lane, Whatlington, Battle, TN33 0NP |
Importation, deposit and burning of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported, deposited and burnt at the site. A site visit was carried out and a meeting held with the landowner, who stated that waste arisings, such as concrete, were site derived. He also referred to vehicles running in and out associated with his business. There was no tangible evidence that waste materials were being imported, deposited and/or burnt at the site.
No breach of planning control was identified and no further action required at this stage. Going forward, as with all cases, further investigations will be undertaken should complaints resume.
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2/2 |
April 2025 |
Land North side of Bircholt, Marlpits Lane, Ninfield TN33 9LD |
Importation and deposit of waste materials. |
A complaint was received that waste materials (soils) were being imported and deposited at the site, down an embankment.
A site visit was carried out and discussions held with local personnel. The materials have been imported to assist with land stabilisation to facilitate an adjacent development.
In terms of planning case law the matter is considered to be operational development, rather that a waste disposal operation, and no further action is required by this Authority as the Waste Planning Authority.
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2/3 |
April 2025 |
Quarry Farm, Bodiam |
Importation and deposit of materials. |
A complaint was received regarding the importation and deposit of waste (soils) at the site. Following investigations, the importation of soils is permitted under the approval of a Prior Notification relating to agricultural improvements.
No breach of planning control was identified, and no further action is required.
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2/4 |
May 2025 |
Eastbourne Golfing Park, Lottbridge Drove, Eastbourne |
Unauthorised development - Breach of pre-commencement conditions attached to Planning Permission EB/889/CM |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to - and deposited at - the site. A site visit confirmed that materials had indeed been imported, which was in breach of the planning permission for the site due to pre-commencement planning conditions not having been discharged.
Following a meeting with the landowner and further correspondence, importation of materials has ceased. There is currently no breach of planning control and the site will be monitored in accordance with the Council’s Site Monitoring Policy. |
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2/5 |
May 2025 |
Little England Farm, Main Road, Hadlow Down |
Importation and deposit of waste from road sweepers. |
A complaint was received that waste materials (road sweepings) were being imported and deposited at the site. A joint site inspection with officers from the Environment Agency and Wealden District Council was carried out, which confirmed that waste materials had been imported to the site.
However, the works are in association with a barn approved by Wealden District Council, who have confirmed they will be pursuing the matter. No further action required by this Authority, as Waste Planning Authority.
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2/6 |
May 2025 |
Marlie Farm, The Broyle, Shortgate, Ringmer |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported and deposited at the site. A joint site visit with an officer from the Environment Agency was carried which confirmed the substance of the complaint.
Following a meeting with the landowner, it was ascertained that the works were in connection with a consent granted by Wealden District Council, who subsequently confirmed this to be the case.
No further action is required by this Authority, as Waste Planning Authority.
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2/7 |
May 2025 |
Unit 4 Ghyll Road Industrial Estate, Ghyll Road, Heathfield |
Breach of conditions of planning permission WD/888/CM and burning of waste |
Conditions attached to planning permission WD/888/CM for the site were breached. Following investigations and site inspections, the waste use of the site has ceased. Therefore, there is no breach of planning control and no further enforcement action is required. |
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2/8 |
July 2025 |
Former Household Waste Site, Station Road, Forest Row |
Importation and processing of construction, demolition and excavation waste. |
A complaint was received regarding waste related activities at the site. An inspection was carried out and it was noted that a groundworks company was occupying the site. Following discussions with personnel on site, it was established that they were operating under a planning permission granted by Wealden District Council.
The matter has therefore been referred to Wealden District Council for any action they consider appropriate.
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2/9 |
August 2025 |
The Cockpit, Bardown Road, Stonegate, Wadhurst |
Importation, processing and storage of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported and processed at the site. An inspection was carried out and a meeting held with the operator. The operator confirmed that they had been at the site for six years and the site is primarily a vehicle/contractor yard.
There were no activities to suggest that this is a waste operation and no further action is required.
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DATE LPA BECAME AWARE OF BREACH
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SITE ADDRESS |
NATURE OF CASE |
CURRENT POSITION |
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3/1 |
April 2025 |
Land at container storage facility to the rear of 172 Battle Road, Hailsham
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Unauthorised deposit of mixed waste. |
Following investigations by officers, it was identified that a significant quantity of mixed waste had been imported to - and deposited at - the site. Contact has been made with the landowner and investigations are continuing. |
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3/2 |
April 2025 |
Land adjacent to and to the rear of 172 Battle Road, Hailsham
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Use of container for storage and transfer of waste materials |
Following investigations by officers, it was noted that an operator from another site was using a shipping container at this site for the storage of waste materials. Investigations are ongoing. |
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3/3 |
April 2025 |
Rideout Agricultural Ltd, Dunly Wood, Mayfield Road, Cross in Hand, Heathfield |
Tipping from road sweepers and processing (potential breach of extant Enforcement Notice). |
A complaint was received that waste from road sweepings was being imported and deposited at the site. A joint site inspection with officers from Wealden Distrct Council and the Environment Agency was carried out. This confirmed that significant quantities of road sweeping waste had indeed been deposited at the site.
The main area of the deposits lies within the area covered by the extant Enforcement Notice served by this Authority in 2021, and this is therefore in breach of the extant Enforcement Notice.
Investigations are continuing, with a view to a prosecution for the breach of the Enforcement Notice.
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3/4 |
April 2025 |
Land at Ockham House, Silverhill, Etchingham |
Importation and deposit of waste materials.
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A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising mostly soils, were being imported and deposited at the site. An inspection was carried out, which confirmed the substance of the complaint. During the course of the site visit, a chance meeting was held with one of the landowner’s sons, who stated that the materials were being imported to cover an area that had historically been tipped with farm waste. Discussions were also held with the operator at the site. Both the landowner’s son and the operator were advised to cease any further importation of materials and works with immediate effect which they duly did.
Following the site visit, a letter was sent to the landowner and officers were then contacted by another of the landowner’s sons. The property is currently for sale and there is an interested purchaser. A subsequent meeting was held with the prospective purchaser who agreed to certain measures and works being undertaken, pending the purchase of the property.
Officers have also had meetings with the Environment Agency and the Police regarding activities at the site.
Currently, results from testing and topographical surveys are awaited pending any further action.
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3/5 |
May 2025 |
Little Friars Farm, Otham Court Lane, Polegate |
Importation, deposit and burying of waste and scrap metal. |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising clinical waste and scrap metal, were being imported, deposited and buried at the site. A concern was also raised regarding the welfare of horses at the site. An initial site inspection was carried out but, despite noting an untidy site, no evidence was found to support the nature of the complaint. A further site inspection was made which, again, could not identify the alleged breach.
A letter was sent to the landowner, but no response received. A further letter was sent and officers were contacted by a relative of the landowner. The landowner is in poor health and relatives are endeavouring to resolve matters. A site meeting was held, which did identify quantities of clinical and other waste materials. Steps are being taken to clear the site of all waste materials and officers are maintaining contact with those involved and monitoring the situation.
The RSPCA have also been involved and the Council understands that all the horses will be removed from the site.
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3/6 |
July 2025 |
Stonehill Farm, Stonehill, Horam |
Importation and deposit of waste |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising soils, were being imported to the site and spread across the land. A joint site inspection with an officer from the Environment Agency was carried out, which confirmed the substance of the complaint. Warnings were issued to the landowner with discussions subsequently being held with the operator at the site. He explained that the works were being carried out to improve drainage and prevent flooding of other areas on the site, which appeared to be genuine. Nevertheless, concerns were raised with the operator regarding the proximity of the deposited materials within the crown spread of trees at the edge of the site.
Remedial works were agreed with the contractor and undertaken to safeguard affected trees going forward. A further site inspection is to be undertaken shortly to ensure the agreed works have been carried out satisfactorily. If so, no further action will be taken.
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3/7 |
July 2025 |
Bardown Farm, Bardown Road, Stonegate |
Importation and deposit of waste |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to and deposited at the site. An inspection was carried out, which confirmed the substance of the complaint. It was noted that fairly significant groundworks have taken place and piles of waste (hardcore, soils, timber and potential trommel fines) are stored at the site. During the initial visit, a chance meeting was held with a relative of the landowner, who claimed not to be aware of what was taking place, but that she would ask the landowner to contact officers.
No contact was made by the landowner, and a warning letter was therefore sent to the landowner. No response has been received and officers are pursuing the matter, with a view to serving a Planning Contravention Notice should a response to a final warning letter not be forthcoming.
The Environment Agency are also involved with the case.
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3/8 |
July 2025 |
Land at East Quay adjacent to Brett Aggregates Limited, Fishers Wharf, East Quay, Newhaven Port, Newhaven |
Dust arising from aggregate storage and processing on land outside area approved by Planning Permission LW/799/CM/EIA |
A complaint was received that dust from aggregate storage piles to the south of the Brett Aggregates site was being blown further afield and causing a nuisance. A site inspection was carried out and discussions held with the site manager.
The site manager advised that the height of the stockpiles has been reduced but there had been a problem with the dust suppression (water sprinkler) system, which was due to be replaced.
Although the storage of aggregates in this area is Permitted Development and not covered by the planning permissions relating to the Brett Aggregate’s site to the north, a further site inspection will be arranged to assess the new dust suppression system and ensure it is fit for purpose.
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3/9 |
July 2025 |
Oakley Farm, London Road, Mountfield, Robertsbridge |
Importation and deposit of waste (soils) |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported and deposited at the site. A site visit was attempted but it was not possible to gain access.
A letter was sent to the landowner and discussions subsequently held. The imported materials are being used to level the land and the landowner proposes to install a charcoal kiln.
A site meeting is currently being arranged.
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3/10 |
August 2025 |
Franchise Farm, Spring Lane, Burwash |
Importation and spreading of waste materials. |
A complaint was received that contaminated waste materials were being imported to the site and spread on the land. An initial site visit was carried out but due to the lack of clarity regarding the location of the waste it was not possible to identify if there was a breach of planning control.
A letter was sent to the landowner who stated that the waste was imported and spread on the land in his absence and without his knowledge. The landowner commissioned testing of the waste and the matter is ongoing.
A joint inspection with the Environment Agency is to be arranged.
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3/11 |
September 2025 |
Adams Farm, Sandrock Hill, Crowhurst, Battle |
Importation and deposit of waste |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to the site and deposited. A site visit was carried out but it was not possible to gain access. A letter was issued to the landowner who has subsequently replied suggesting that lorries attending the site were bringing in compost and topsoil. A meeting on site with the landowner will be arranged shortly to ascertain the veracity of this.
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3/12 |
September 2025 |
Plot 324, 6 Valley Road, Peacehaven |
Importation and burning of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported, deposited and burnt at the site. Allegations regarding other breaches of planning control in respect of the unauthorised siting of residential caravans and other operational development were also made.
The matter is currently under investigation.
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3/13 |
September 2025 |
Land on south side of West End, Herstmonceux, Hailsham |
Deposit of soil from adjacent development |
A complaint was received that waste materials (soil) from an adjacent housing development had been deposited in a field. A site visit was carried out which confirmed the substance of the complaint. A letter is due to be sent to the landowner pending any further action.
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3/14 |
September 2025 |
Land to the south-east of Royal Oak Garage, London Road, Flimwell |
Importation and deposit of waste materials (soil/sandstone) and burning of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials (soil/sandstone) were being deposited on the land. A site inspection was carried out, which confirmed that a significant quantity of clean site derived materials had been deposited on an area of land, including within Ancient Woodland. Those materials had arisen as a result of a Planning Permission for site works granted by Tunbridge Wells District Council.
Instructions were issued to immediately clear and restore the Ancient Woodland. This was backed up with correspondence issued to the landowner and a subsequent site meeting held both with him and his planning agent. As required, all materials have been removed from within the Ancient Woodland; original levels have been restored. No damage to trees has occurred. The material removed has been temporarily stockpiled elsewhere on the site. The landowner has indicated that it is the intention to make a planning application to retain the materials elsewhere on the site and a planning application is expected.
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DATE LPA BECAME AWARE OF BREACH
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SITE ADDRESS |
NATURE OF CASE |
CURRENT POSITION |
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4/1 |
January 2020
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Meadow Farm, Road Hill, Isfield |
Importation and deposit of waste (soils and hardcore) |
In 2018 a complaint was received alleging that lorry loads of waste materials, comprising soils and hardcore, had been imported into the site and deposited. Joint site visits were undertaken with officers from the Environment Agency and Wealden District Council, and meetings were also held with the landowner and operators. Wealden District Council invited an application, which sought to retain the deposited materials on site to be used in several engineering operations. That authority eventually decided that they could not entertain such an application and returned the application and fee to the landowner.
The matter was then referred back to the County Council to deal with as a County Matter. Officers held an initial site meeting with the landowner (February 2020). At that time the whole area was so waterlogged as to be impassable, and the removal of the materials was not feasible. Since the initial meeting, the Coronavirus Pandemic prevented further progress in this matter. However, contact was maintained with the landowner in order to progress matters.
A further meeting was then held with the landowner and an initial course of action was agreed, which was the moving of the bunds of material to outside of the crown spread of the trees. Initially there had been no progress made because of the waterlogged ground conditions and the site needed a considerable period of dry weather to improve the ground conditions to allow work to start. However, works were then commenced to remove the bunds and a subsequent site inspection noted that the landowner had moved the imported materials away from the crown spread of the affected trees.
Numerous inspections have been carried out and a meeting held with the landowner. Further works to resolve the breach of planning control were identified and agreed with the landowner, together with a timetable for their completion. Officers are monitoring the site to review progress. A further site meeting with the landowner and other officers is to be arranged to check progress with the remedial works.
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4/2 |
April 2021 |
Crockstead Farm Hotel, Halland |
Importation and deposit of waste – soils. |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising soils, were being imported into the site and deposited. A site visit was undertaken, during which a meeting was held with the operator undertaking the works, who admitted that materials had been imported into the site to improve an existing access track and to improve the land.
At the time of the site visit, the landowner was away. A letter was sent to the landowner and a meeting was subsequently held with the site manager who explained that the materials were imported to improve the land for equestrian grazing.
The materials imported included soils, which contained a significant quantity of hardcore, metal and plastics, which would eventually work through to the finished surface of the site. This material was not considered to be suitable for its intended purpose and, after considering the situation, the County Council required the materials to be removed and the original landform to be restored. The operator/landowner was given an initial timescale for these remedial works to be undertaken.
A planning application (WD/891/CM) to regularise the breach of planning control has subsequently been submitted and is currently under consideration.
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4/3 |
June 2021
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Former HT Drinks Site, Endeavour Works, Beach Road, Newhaven |
Importation and bulking up of waste tyres. |
A complaint was received that waste tyres were being imported into this site and were being bulked up. A joint site visit was undertaken with an officer from the Environment Agency, which confirmed the substance of the complaint.
A meeting and subsequent correspondence were had with the site operator and agent, and the requirement for planning permission and an environmental permit explained. The operator stated his intention to apply for planning permission and an environmental permit, and a timescale was agreed for him to submit the necessary applications.
The agreed timescale for the submission of a planning application expired without any application being submitted. Officers therefore undertook a further site visit to check the situation at the site. This confirmed that the site was continuing to be used for the unauthorised waste activity.
Further contact was made with the operator, who stated that the planning application was being prepared and would be submitted in the next few days. No planning application was forthcoming, and the unauthorised activity continued. A Temporary Stop Notice was therefore served on the landowner, operator and interested parties on 12 November 2021, which ceased the waste activity on the site.
Following the service of the Temporary Stop Notice, the operator submitted a planning application (LW/860/CM) relating to the waste tyre processing on the site, including by pyrolysis. However, due to proposed changes to the planning application, it was withdrawn in January 2024. The operator has engaged a new agent and intends to submit a revised planning application.
In the meantime, the site is continuing to be monitored and only the storage and baling of tyres is taking place which, whilst unauthorised, is not presently causing any apparent harm. The operator is well aware however of the possibility of further enforcement action being taken.
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4/4 |
June 2022
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Skilton's Skips, AS Farm, The Warren Crowborough
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Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received regarding a potential skip business being operated from the site. An initial inspection was carried out which confirmed the nature of the complaint. Further inspections were then undertaken and discussions held with the operator.
There are adjoining sites which have also been investigated; matters have been complicated by landownership issues and boundary disputes. Correspondence was issued to the person understood to be the overarching landowner regarding the various issues. A further site meeting was held with the landowner in January 2024, which identified various options to regularise matters. Further correspondence was then issued to the landowner following that meeting, since when there has been no contact or progress. Accordingly, the case is being reviewed to consider what action now needs to be taken to remedy matters and address any harm being caused. It is highly likely that a Planning Contravention Notice will be served. The site is continuing to be monitored by officers.
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4/5 |
June 2022 |
AM Skips & Plant Hire, Hazelbank, London Road, Maresfield, |
Breach of conditions – noise and site layout. |
During a site monitoring visit, it was noted that the layout of the site was not in accordance with the approved plans. Subsequent complaints were also received regarding excessive noise emanating from the site and its operations.
Numerous site visits were carried out and meetings held with the operator and also the Environmental Health Officer (EHO) from Wealden District Council (WDC). In respect of noise, WDC have previously served a Noise Abatement Notice on the operator and the EHO identified certain measures which could be implemented to address the noise issues, such as acoustic fencing. However, such measures require planning permission due to their scale.
The operator submitted a planning application (WD/876/CM) for the erection of three metres high boundary treatment (acoustic fencing) to the north-western boundary of the site. The application was approved under delegated powers (August 2023) and the fencing had to be installed within six months of the date of the decision (February 2024).
Notwithstanding the submission of a planning application to address the noise issues at the site, with regard to the remaining breaches no satisfactory progress had been made to resolve these. Consequently, a Section 330 Notice (Requisition for Information) was served on the operator as a precursor to the instigation of formal enforcement proceedings. A response to the Notice was received.
A further site inspection was carried out, which confirmed that the acoustic fencing had been installed. Despite the installation of the fencing, complaints have continued to be received and the overall site layout remains in breach of the approved plans for the site.
The site is currently being monitored to ascertain whether it is breaching its noise controls.
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4/6 |
July 2022 |
The Plantation, Ersham Road, Stone Cross |
Importation, processing and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received regarding a significant number of lorries entering the site and depositing waste materials. A joint inspection with an officer from the Environment Agency was undertaken. The drivers of lorries entering the site were spoken to and a chance meeting with the landowner held. It was noted that a substantial volume of waste materials, including trommel fines, hardcore, subsoil and timber, had been imported to the site and deposited. Processing plant was also noted to be on the site.
The landowner stated he was carrying out works associated with a Prior Notification approval he had in relation to raising the levels of land to return it to productive agricultural use. However, the scale of the works went well beyond this and the nature of considerable quantities of the material being imported and stockpiled (trommel fines) was wholly unsuitable for that purpose. Work was halted whilst further investigations were carried out.
Due to the scale and nature of the works, a Planning Contravention Notice was served on the landowner and a “Time and Place” meeting held, which was attended by the landowner, his solicitor, and other representatives. Since that meeting, a further, extensive site inspection was undertaken with the landowner, in addition to a later joint site meeting with officers from Wealden District Council and the landowner.
Correspondence was issued to the landowner further to the various site meetings clearly setting out the Council’s position regarding remedying what was a very significant breach and the repercussions of not doing so. Since then, further discussions and site meetings have taken place to ensure the satisfactory progression of remedial measures. No further waste materials have been imported to the site. Soil testing was carried out on the imported materials in order to assess their make-up. The results identified that the materials were not suitable for use on the land. Extensive further testing has since been carried out and arrangements made for the waste materials to be removed from the site to authorised places of disposal.
Significant quantities of materials, much of it trommel fines, have been removed from the site. Contact has been maintained with representatives of the landowner and a further site inspection is due to take place to confirm that the required works have been carried out.
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4/7 |
November 2022 |
FM Conway Ltd, North Quay Road, Newhaven |
Breach of conditions and excessive emissions. |
During a site monitoring visit, it was noted that the site layout was not in full accordance with the planning permission for the site (LW/840/CM) and also that details pursuant to several conditions were outstanding. Contact was made with Environmental Health Officers at Lewes District Council concerning potential breaches of the Environmental Permit in relation to emissions.
The operator subsequently submitted details pursuant to the outstanding conditions and undertook works regarding emissions and breaches of the Environmental Permit. Noise attenuation fencing was also installed and improvements to operating practices implemented.
Whilst positive progress was made to resolve the various matters, there remain outstanding issues relating to both the planning permission and Environmental Permit.
A planning application (LW/886/CM) was subsequently submitted in relation to increasing the height of the stack and this was approved by the Planning Committee at its meeting on 14 August 2024. The planning permission has now been implemented, and the stack extension was installed in early March 2025.
A further planning application (LW/894/CM) to regularise the layout of the site and add a new covered bay has been submitted and is being considered under Agenda Item 5 of this Planning Committee meeting.
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4/8 |
February 2023 |
Land adjacent to reservoir, Cottage Hill, Rotherfield |
Use of land by skip business. |
A complaint was received that the land was being used by a skip business and waste was being brought back to the site. A site visit was carried out and an area of land with two skips on it was found. The ownership of the land is not registered at the Land Registry and attempts to identify the landowner were initially unsuccessful.
Further site visits have been carried out and contact was finally made with the operator. During discussions the operator was advised of the planning requirements for the use of the site and he is currently considering options going forward.
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4/9 |
February 2023 |
Land north-west of Eridge Road, Crowborough |
Importation and deposit of waste: Landraising. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported and deposited, resulting in a change to the landform. A site visit was carried out which confirmed the substance of the complaint and noted that significant quantities of materials had been imported, raising the levels of the land.
Investigations and liaison with Wealden District Council identified a complex planning history for the site, including two planning permissions - one for a timber storage barn and storage container on the southern part; and one for the erection of a building to store wood and manufacture timber fencing products on the northern part of the site. It is, however, unclear whether these permissions allow for the alterations of the levels of the land, which would account for the imported materials, or whether the materials have been imported solely as a means of disposal.
Further investigations were carried out and a site inspection undertaken with Wealden District Council. Since then, an extensive site inspection has been carried out with the Environment Agency and matters are ongoing.
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4/10 |
March 2023 |
Timber Yard, Limekiln Forest Road, Eridge Green, Crowborough |
Importation, deposit and burning of waste. |
During a visit to another site in the locality, officers noticed what appeared to be the storage and burning of waste materials. The primary use of the site appears to be a timber yard, but some of the items noted on site were not consistent with that use. There is no relevant planning history for the site.
A further inspection has been carried out and contact made with the landowner, who has recently purchased the site. The new landowner is in the process of clearing the site and has been made aware of the restrictions in terms of any waste use/activity at the site. Officers will monitor the site to ensure the waste is removed.
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4/11 |
March 2023 |
Greenacres, London Road, Battle |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received regarding waste materials (soils and hardcore) being imported to the site. A site visit was carried out which confirmed the substance of the complaint; however, no one was present. Officers liaised with the Environment Agency, who also had an interest in the site. Significant quantities of material have been deposited adversely affecting Ancient Woodland and the High Weald National Landscape.
Contact was subsequently made with the landowner and a site meeting held. The landowner confirmed that some materials had been imported, but also that a large amount of the material had originated from within the site following various building projects. The landowner stated it was their intention to improve the area of land and create a wildflower meadow.
Two further site meetings were held with the landowner, their representatives and various officers from this Authority, including an Ecologist and Landscape officer. Various options to resolve the matter were discussed and a programme of works agreed, which included the removal of material, restoration of the landform, replacement planting and ecological enhancements.
These works were due to be secured through the submission of a planning application. However, no application has been forthcoming, and the landowner is no longer responding to correspondence. Therefore, an Enforcement Notice is being prepared and will be served on the landowner and interested parties shortly.
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4/12 |
March 2023 |
Tanyard Farm, Hooe Road, Ninfield, Battle |
Importation and deposit of waste: soils and scrap vehicles: |
A complaint was received regarding the importation of waste materials to the site, including lorries entering at night. A site visit was carried out which confirmed the substance of the complaint. Following the site visit a letter was sent to the landowner, however no response was received and a chaser was sent. Officers also liaised with officers from other agencies as well as gathering further information from other sources.
During a further site inspection it was noted that burning was taking place and officers observed an unattended bonfire at the site. As the landowners has failed to respond to correspondence, they were issued with a warning letter and a Planning Contravention Notice (PCN) was subsequently served on them. No response to the PCNs was received.
Officers have since visited the site again and noted that the waste use is continuing, along with other activities including potential residential uses. It is proposed to issue a new Planning Contravention Notice, which will be served in person.
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4/13 |
June 2023 |
Giffords Farm, Battle Road, Dallington |
Importation and deposit of waste, creation of haul road and infilling of a pond.
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A complaint was received regarding the importation of waste to the site. An initial site visit was undertaken but officers were unable to gain access.
A joint inspection with the Environment Agency was subsequently undertaken and discussions held with the landowner. Some of the works related to a planning permission for the infilling of a lagoon and pond, and the erection of a barn, granted by Rother District Council (RDC) and the matter has been referred to RDC to check compliance.
Notwithstanding this, there was evidence of the importation of significant quantities of assorted waste materials elsewhere on the site as well as the creation of a large pond. The site is with the High Weald National Landscape. Of particular concern is the deposit of waste in areas of Ancient Woodland given its likely adverse impact on both trees and ecology. A letter was sent to the landowner following the inspection but no response was received. A warning letter regarding the lack of any reply was sent to the landowner, but still no response was received.
A Planning Contravention Notice (PCN) was therefore served on the landowner in January 2024. The landowner failed, despite numerous reminders, to respond to the Planning Contravention Notice, which is an offence.
As a result of the landowner’s failure to respond to the PCN, a prosecution was brought against him. The case was heard at Hastings Magistrates’ Court on 18 July 2024, where the landowner pleaded guilty to the offence of failing to respond to the PCN. He was ordered to pay a total of £1,291.50, consisting of £700 fine; £311.50 costs and £280 Victim Surcharge.
Following the successful prosecution, a further letter was sent to the landowner advising him that a response to the PCN was still required and it was an ongoing offence to fail to do so. Despite this, the landowner chose still to not respond to the PCN. He was therefore subsequently summonsed to appear before Hastings Magistrates’ Court in October 2024. He once again pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay a total of £1,229.34; consisting of £576 fine; £423.34 Victim Surcharge and £423.34 costs.
Following the second successful prosecution, the landowner’s agent contacted officers, indicating that he was keen to work with the Council to resolve matters. Regrettably, nothing has happened in this regard and there has been no apparent attempt to meet deadlines set for the removal of the waste materials, particularly from within the Ancient Woodland. Therefore, an Enforcement Notice is being prepared and will be served shortly.
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4/14 |
September 2023 |
Land off Hempstead Lane, Hailsham. |
Use of land as a waste site. |
A complaint was received that waste materials (soils and hardcore) were being imported to and stored at the site. A site visit was carried out which confirmed the substance of the complaint. Contact was made with the operator and a site meeting held.
The site in question is brownfield formerly being part of a scrap yard, the main body of which is on land directly opposite.
Further to officers maintaining contact with the operator and undertaking additional monitoring visits, the operator indicated that a planning application would be submitted to regularise the use of the site. The operator subsequently requested formal pre-application advice, which was provided. There have been delays with the submission of an application due to the operator changing planning agents. Following a recent complaint and further site inspection, it was noted that agreed remedial works had not been carried out. Enforcement action very much remains an option and the operator is well aware of this. It is currently expected that a planning application will be submitted by the end of November 2025. Officers are maintaining a very close eye on the situation.
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4/15 |
September 2023 |
Land at Lunsford Cross Farm (now known as Church Stand Farm), Peartree Lane, Ninfield. |
Importation/deposit of waste, plus other issues. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to and deposited at the site, as well as the unauthorised use of the land for residential purposes and other matters. An initial site visit was carried out, which supported the nature of the complaint, but it was not possible to gain full access to the site.
A multi-agency site visit was subsequently undertaken which identified a number of issues for the various regulatory bodies to deal with. Following the site visit, the landowner made contact with officers and a further inspection and meeting was arranged.
At that meeting, various matters were identified, including the residential use of a caravan and the importation of waste materials. The owner has been told what remedial measures are expected. The matter remains ongoing and a further joint site inspection will be arranged.
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4/16 |
January 2024 |
Bowen Farm, Park Lane, Laughton, |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to the site. A joint inspection with officers from Wealden District Council was carried out, which confirmed the substance of the complaint. During the course of that inspection, discussions were held with the landowner who stated that the materials had been imported in connection with landscaping works related to the conversion of farm buildings, which had the benefit of planning permission. The officer from Wealden District Council advised that the extent of the land covered by the planning permission for the conversion did not extend to the area where the materials had been deposited.
Following the initial inspection, a letter was sent to the landowner, who subsequently appointed an agent. Several site meetings have been held and correspondence has taken place with the agent and their ecological consultants. Significant remedial works including the removal of material were expected, as was a planning application to regularise certain matters including landscape and ecological works.
A planning application has now been submitted (WD/903/CM) and is currently being processed.
The Environment Agency are also investigating matters relevant to them.
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4/17 |
February 2024 |
Oaklands Farm, Newick Lane, Heathfield |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported and spread on the land. A joint site visit with an officer from Wealden District Council was carried out and a meeting held with the landowner and their planning agent. There was evidence of imported materials and the landowner stated these were for works around the farm.
It transpires there is an extant Enforcement Notice on the site (served by Wealden District Council) which relates to the unauthorised use as a ground workers commercial storage yard and depot. The Enforcement Notice requires this use to cease and also for plant, machinery, vehicles to be removed. It also requires rubbish, rubble and debris to be removed.
As the Enforcement Notice requires the removal of waste materials, it is considered that this Authority should wait for compliance with the District Council’s Notice and then assess if there are further steps that need to be taken to resolve any other breaches of planning control.
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4/18 |
February 2024 |
Magreed Farm, Magreed Lane, Broad Oak, Heathfield
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Importation and deposit of waste. General site condition. |
A complaint was received about waste materials being imported to the site and deposited. Due to the history of the site, a joint site visit with officers from Wealden District Council was carried out.
A warning letter to the landowners was sent and a subsequent joint site meeting held both with them and an Officer from Wealden District Council. A significant quantity of farm detritus was present on site and the landowners advised that much of this had either come from their previous farm or had been inherited from the previous landowner. Scrap metal from the site is being taken to a local scrap yard. Specific works to remove items from the site were agreed.
A further inspection to monitor progress regarding the clearance of items from the site has recently been carried out and it was noted that some progress has been made. However, there remains further waste to be removed and the matter is being monitored.
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4/19 |
March 2024 |
Land adjacent to Star House, Down Street, Piltdown
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Deposition of soil and storage of scrap cars. |
A complaint was received that waste soil was being imported to the site, scrap vehicles stored and vegetation was being allowed to encroach onto the highway. An inspection was carried out, and whilst it was not possible to gain access to the site, from the adjoining road it was possible to see piles of soil within the site as well as several vehicles. There was no evidence of vegetation encroaching onto the highway.
Further site visits have been carried out and, most recently, access to the site was gained. There was evidence of waste being stored and burning taking place, together with several scrap cars stored in the woodland.
A warning letter has been sent to the landowner and discussions are ongoing.
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4/20 |
April 2024 |
8 Grovelands, Hailsham |
Importation, storage, bulking up and sorting of waste. |
Following previous alleged breaches of planning control at this property, periodic monitoring had been taking place with advice being issued to the occupant on several occasions. Matters seemed to have been remedied but after a period of time further complaints were received that the owner of the property was again bringing waste back, sorting, bulking up and storing it, before disposing of it elsewhere.
Further monitoring of the site and activities took place, as well as investigations of various sources of information pertaining to activities at the site. Several other lines of inquiry were also followed.
Discussions were held with the landowner and the planning situation set out to him. It was made clear, both during discussions and in correspondence, that waste should not be brought back, sorted and stored at the property.
Despite the warning of enforcement action, the landowner continued to use the property for unauthorised waste related uses. Accordingly, an Enforcement Notice was served on him, which required the cessation of the importation, sorting and storage of waste and the clearance of the site. No appeal was made against the Enforcement Notice.
Complaints continue to be received and officers are closely monitoring the site to ascertain whether the Notice is being breached. Should a breach of the Notice be detected the Council will likely initiate legal proceedings.
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4/21 |
April 2024 |
Messens Farm, Potmans Lane, Bexhill on Sea |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials (soil and hardcore) were being imported and deposited at the site. A site visit was carried out and discussions held with the landowner, who stated that the materials had been imported to level some undulating land.
Discussions took place with officers from Wealden District Council as to whether the works were in connection with a planning permission granted by them for an equestrian sand school. Their view is that the works are outside that permission.
The landowner was advised to undertake some immediate remedial works and also that planning permission is likely to be required if the materials are to be retained. The matter is ongoing, and officers will be undertaking a further site inspection to ascertain whether remedial works have been carried out or the materials removed.
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4/22 |
August 2024 |
187 London Road, Hailsham |
Alleged importation of waste and scrap metal - breach of extant Enforcement Notice. |
There is an extant Enforcement Notice for this site prohibiting scrap metal and other waste related activities. Complaints were received that waste related activities were again taking place at the property.
Several inspections were carried out and breaches of the Enforcement Notice identified. Warning notices were issued and a letter sent to the landowner setting out a timescale for the clearance of the site and compliance with the Enforcement Notice.
The landowner failed to comply and continued to breach the Enforcement Notice. Consequently, he was summonsed to appear before Hastings Magistrates’ Court on 19 December 2024. The landowner failed to attend and the case was heard in his absence. The Magistrates were satisfied that the case had been proven and ordered the landowner to pay a total of £7,827.63; consisting of a £5,000 fine, £2,000 Victim Surcharge and £827.63 in costs. This was the third time the owner had been prosecuted by the Waste Planning Authority for breaching the requirements of the extant Enforcement Notice.
Since the prosecution, the site has been monitored and the breach continues, with complaints continuing to be received. Therefore, other options are now being actively and urgently considered in collaboration with our legal team as to how to secure compliance with the Enforcement Notice.
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4/23 |
October 2024 |
South Hartfield House, Colemans Hatch, Hartfield |
Excavation and deposit of soils. |
A complaint was received that excavations were taking place and the excavated soil was being deposited on the boundary of the property.
Investigations have been carried out and discussions held with the landowner. Some materials (MOT Type 1 (sub base)) have been imported in connection with works to the drive to the property and soil imported for drainage purposes.
Further information is awaited from the landowner.
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4/24 |
January 2025 |
Sussex Waste Management Site, Whitworth Road, St Leonards-on-sea |
Breach of Condition - Site Layout. |
During a monitoring visit, it was noted that the site was not in accordance with the approved layout under planning permission HS/884/CM.
Remedial steps were set out for the operator to return the site to compliance with the planning permission. A further inspection noted that progress had been made with the site, but there remain some breaches. Further steps have been specified and an inspection is due to be undertaken to check the site is compliant.
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4/25 |
January 2025 |
Cuckoo Cottage, Newick Lane, Mayfield |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising soil and hardcore, were being imported to the site and tipped into an old railway cutting. A joint site visit with the Environment Agency was undertaken and a meeting held with the landowners.
The landowners explained that there were stability issues with the railway cutting due to its steepness and a landslip had occurred. This was jeopardising their access. Sheet piling had been installed and then the waste soils and hardcore tipped in order to shore-up the embankments. However, slippage of the deposited materials has now occurred. The landowner stated that they wished to import further materials. The planning and Environmental Permitting requirements were clearly set out. Advice was given to instruct a suitably qualified structural engineer and that planning permission should be sought for the works.
In addition to the stability of the embankments, officers have also been in contact with the Historical Railways Estate (HRE) due to concerns regarding the structural integrity of the bridge over the former railway, which provides access to the site. Initially HRE had deemed the bridge unsafe but have now reassessed it and are satisfied that the bridge can take lorries over it. Separate to the potential infilling of the railway cutting, HRE will be submitting a planning application to Wealden District Council to fill around the piers of the bridge to protect them from any future landslips.
A further site inspection has been carried out and it was noted that further materials had been imported to assist with the stabilisation of the cutting. Officers are liaising with the Environment Agency and the case is currently being reviewed to determine the appropriate way forward.
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4/26 |
January 2025 |
Upper Wilting Farm, Crowhurst Road, St Leonards on Sea |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received via Rother District Council that waste materials were being imported to the site. A site visit was carried out but it was not possible to gain entry. Contact is being made with the operator/landowner to arrange access to the site and a site meeting.
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4/27 |
January 2025 |
Land east of Lower Wilting Farm, Crowhurst Road, St Leonards on Sea |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising soil and hardcore, were being imported, deposited and spread across the site. A joint site visit with officers from Rother District Council was undertaken which confirmed the substance of the complaint. During the site visit, it was noted that significant quantities of waste had been imported to the site and deposited over a large area, with no apparent reason.
A letter was sent to the landowner and a response received advising that the tenant of the site was responsible. Contact was made with the tenant and a programme of works to remove the imported waste materials agreed.
Officers have undertaken further visits to the site and works are progressing to clear the imported materials and restore the land. This site is continuing to be monitored to ensure full removal of the materials and satisfactory restoration.
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4/28 |
March 2025 |
Land opposite Little Exceat Farm (Hurst Barns Farm, Chiltington Lane, East Chiltington |
Importation and deposit of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials, comprising hardcore/bricks, had been imported to and deposited at the site. A site visit was carried out which confirmed the substance of the complaint, although the materials deposited appeared to have been processed and akin to MOT Type 1.
An agricultural track has been constructed in recent years and it is possible the materials are for the repair/maintenance of this. Further investigations are continuing to fully understand the nature of the materials and the reason for their importation.
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4/29 |
March 2025 |
Land North West of Eridge Road, (ESX229476) Lower Ashwood Farm, Crowborough |
Importation and burning of waste - recontouring of land. |
Whilst undertaking a joint site inspection with the Environment Agency to an existing site, several other sites were noted to appear to be being used for waste related activities. Details of all the owners have been obtained and further investigations are currently underway with a view to remedying waste related breaches of planning control at these additional sites. |
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4/30 |
March 2025 |
Land North West of Eridge Road, (ESX392714) Lower Ashwood Farm, Crowborough |
Importation and burning of waste - recontouring of land. |
Whilst undertaking a joint site inspection with the Environment Agency to an existing site, several other sites were noted to appear to be being used for waste related activities. Details of all the owners have been obtained and further investigations are underway with a view to remedying waste related breaches of planning control at these additional sites. |
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4/31 |
March 2025 |
Land North West of Eridge Road, (ESX97819) Lower Ashwood Farm, Crowborough |
Importation of waste and recontouring of land. |
Whilst undertaking a joint site inspection with the Environment Agency to an existing site, several other sites were noted to appear to be being used for waste related activities. Details of all the owners have been obtained and further investigations are currently underway with a view to remedying waste related breaches of planning control at these additional sites.
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4/32 |
March 2025 |
Land North West of Eridge Road, (ESX248144) Lower Ashwood Farm, Crowborough
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Importation and storage of waste paper and burning of waste. |
Whilst undertaking a joint site inspection with the Environment Agency to an existing site, several other sites were noted to appear to be being used for waste related activities. Details of all the owners have been obtained and further investigations are currently underway with a view to remedying waste related breaches of planning control at these additional sites. |
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4/33 |
March 2025
[Note: this is a different operator to the entry below.] |
Stanbridge Grab Services Limited, The Woodyard, A267 Tunbridge Wells Road, Frant |
Importation, storage and processing of waste. |
A report was received from the Environment Agency that the site was being used for the tipping and processing of waste soils and then the bulking up and bagging of the processed materials. Research into the site has not found any relevant planning permission that would allow this activity.
An inspection is in the process of being arranged.
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4/34 |
March 2025
[Note: this is a different operator to the entry above.] |
Stanbridge Surfacing Limited, The Woodyard, A267 Tunbridge Wells Road, Frant |
Importation, storage and processing of waste. |
A report was received from the Environment Agency that the site was being used for the storage of unprocessed waste soil, tarmac, concrete and bricks, and potential processing using a crusher. Research into the site has not found any relevant planning permission that would allow this activity.
An inspection is in the process of being arranged.
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4/35 |
March 2025 |
Land at Corseley Road, Groombridge |
Importation, deposit and burning of waste. |
A complaint was received that waste materials were being imported to the site and burnt. Unfortunately, specific details of the location were not provided, but officers attended the area and identified the site in question, where it was noted that waste materials had been imported and there was also evidence of burning.
A letter was sent to the landowner, who contacted officers to state that the waste had been imported by persons unknown whilst he was away. He confirmed he intended to clear the site and secure it. A further site inspection is required to ensure the site has indeed been cleared.
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