In a serious escalation of enforcement action, the Environment Agency (EA), supported by West Yorkshire Police, conducted site inspections at Mineral Processing Ltd in South Elmsall, Wakefield, following a suspension notice issued for environmental permit violations. These inspections, carried out on April 17, 2025, mark a critical step in addressing mounting concerns about odour pollution and potential environmental damage linked to the site.
Despite the active suspension notice, community members had reported that vehicles were still entering the facility—raising alarm over continued waste activities. The EA has confirmed it is stepping up surveillance, odour monitoring, and enforcement to ensure full compliance.
You can view the full government release here.
Why Was the Suspension Notice Issued?
The Environment Agency issued a suspension notice after identifying that waste materials were being accepted and deposited in breach of the site’s environmental permit. The violation significantly increased the risk of pollution, including intense odours that have sparked complaints from the local community.
The suspension prohibits Mineral Processing Ltd from:
- Bringing any additional waste onto the site.
- Continuing with any waste-processing operations until the site is compliant.
- Avoiding removal of non-compliant waste material.
Despite these restrictions, concerns over non-compliance prompted a coordinated inspection operation with West Yorkshire Police to monitor the site and surrounding areas.
More details are provided in the official Environment Agency announcement.
What Happened During the Site Inspection?
During the site visit, no waste-carrying vehicles were observed entering the premises. However, EA officers confirmed that they are actively monitoring the site for any illegal operations. Odour monitoring equipment has also been deployed in response to persistent complaints from residents.
A spokesperson for the EA commented:
“We understand the impact the odour from this site is having on the community and our increased regulatory response continues. This includes ongoing odour monitoring and regular site inspections, as well as action to proactively monitor vehicle movements.”
Monitoring Measures and Environmental Surveillance
To ensure accurate and continuous monitoring of potential pollutants, the Environment Agency has:
- Installed a Mobile Monitoring Facility (MMF) near the site, set to operate for the next four months.
- Deployed handheld gas analysers to detect hydrogen sulphide and other noxious gases.
- Coordinated with Wakefield Council to assess and enforce planning conditions associated with the site.
These efforts are part of a broader inter-agency approach to ensure full compliance with environmental standards.
If you’re experiencing strong odours in the area, the EA urges you to report it via their 24-hour Incident Hotline at 0800 807060.
Legal Appeal by Mineral Processing Ltd
Mineral Processing Ltd has filed an appeal against the suspension notice with the Planning Inspectorate. However, the Environment Agency emphasized that the suspension notice remains active and legally binding during the appeals process.
Importantly, failure to comply with the notice constitutes a criminal offence, even while the appeal is underway. This makes adherence to EA requirements crucial for the company to avoid further legal consequences.
How the Community Can Get Involved
Local residents play a key role in reporting environmental violations. The Environment Agency encourages community members to:
- Report odours and suspected illegal activity directly to the EA’s Incident Hotline (0800 807060).
- Share anonymous information with Crimestoppers (0800 555111) or submit a tip online using the “Environmental Crime” category on their website.
These community reports assist authorities in holding polluting companies accountable and protecting local ecosystems.
Conclusion
The Environment Agency’s coordinated operation with West Yorkshire Police at the Mineral Processing Ltd site is a strong signal that environmental regulations will be strictly enforced. With increasing public awareness and concern over pollution, agencies are using a combination of legal, scientific, and community tools to protect the environment.
While the company awaits a decision on its appeal, residents and regulators alike remain vigilant. For the latest updates and guidance, visit the Environment Agency’s official site.
FAQs
1. What did Mineral Processing Ltd do wrong?
The company was found to have accepted and deposited waste in breach of its environmental permit, leading to increased pollution risks.
2. What actions has the Environment Agency taken?
The EA issued a suspension notice, prohibited waste processing at the site, conducted inspections, and deployed odour monitoring equipment.
3. Can the company continue operating during the appeal?
No. The suspension remains in effect while the appeal is under review, and violations during this period are criminal offences.
4. How can I report pollution from the site?
Call the EA’s 24-hour Incident Hotline at 0800 807060 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555111.
5. Where can I read the full EA statement?
The Environment Agency’s full press release is available here.
