Evidence found in huge pile of blown garbage

Investigators searching for criminals who illegally dumped a huge pile of rubbish on a rural Staffordshire road say the inquiry is “pointing in a direction”.

“We found a lot of evidence there,” said Environmental Protection Manager Jack Twomey. They confirmed that they are following several leads in the investigation.

“As the trash is being removed, we’re going out there and trying to find the origin of the trash to see if we can find anything else.”

A mountain of rubbish was discovered on Watery Lane in Lichfield at around 06:00 GMT on Monday, leaving residents disconnected and business owners unable to access their premises.

The construction of a housing estate at the other end of Watery Lane was already creating access problems.

Lichfield District Council said it would find the culprits and hold them accountable for the flytipping which was revealed overnight.

Under Section 33 of the Environment Protection Act 1990, people convicted of the offense face unlimited fines and, in serious cases, jail terms.

Speaking on Monday, the cabinet member in charge of waste, Councilor Phil Whitehouse, said he was “completely shocked” by the amount dumped and that it appeared it was a calculated action.

Business owner Natalie Farkas told the BBC that illegal dumping had blocked the firms’ only access to their premises, compounding the problems caused by existing road closures.

Companies have lost two days of business as a result of flytipping, he said.

The companies had already seen a decline of about 40% in business due to the ongoing disruption caused by the construction of housing estates.

“This is absolutely unbearable” she said. “I have been in business for 30 years and this is the most stressful time I have ever been,” Ms Farkas said.

“I have been through recessions four times and I have always managed to keep my composure and keep my business going.”

Paul Shaw, managing director of Redrow Midlands, said the housing developer has offered to support the council in the cleanup of illegal waste as well as future preventative measures.

The company has also temporarily opened an access road through its development for local residents and businesses.

Mr Shaw also said that part of Watery Lane, which had been closed due to the construction of a housing estate, was due to reopen in April.

Contractors have been on site since 07:00 GMT, the council said.