Restriction Order on land at Clockcase Road, Clenchwarton, King's Lynn due to fears waste activity will harm human health and environment

A section of land has been closed to the public due to fears over the impact waste activity will have on human health and the environment.

Norwich Magistrates have issued a Restriction Order prohibiting access to - and bringing waste into - a 15 hectare area of land off Clockcase Road, Clenchwarton - on the outskirts of King's Lynn.

Breaching the order will reportedly result in criminal sanctions. It will remain in force until 11.59pm on February 15 - although this may be extended.

The order was issued following concerns raised by the Environment Agency which considered 'the harm that the Clockcase Road waste activities could have on human health and the environment'. The agency put in an application under section 109D Environment Act 1995.

This follows a Stop Notice being issued to the owner of land at Kenfield Farm, Main Road, Clenchwarton in June to halt the unauthorised deposit and burning of waste following a major fire the month before.

The land owner is also associated with the area that has now been sanctioned at Clockcase Road.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue had raised concerns about the potential for more fires, given the prolonged dry weather.

Investigations into alleged waste activities at both sites are continuing.

Cllr Paul Kunes, cabinet member for environment and CO2 reduction, said: "I welcome the use of enforcement action by the Environment Agency as this kind of behaviour shows contempt for the environment and local community.

"This must not be tolerated, and we will do everything in our power to put a stop to unauthorised waste disposal when we become aware of it.

"The borough council will continue to support the Environment Agency, who are the lead organisation, with this investigation and any future incidents. Joint action will be taken as and when needed.

"The public can help us by reporting incidents and eliminate the illegal waste market by checking that they only hand their waste to those authorised to take it.

"Businesses and individuals should also make sure they are aware of their own waste responsibilities so that they are compliant with the law."

The Environment Agency is continuing to work with West Norfolk Council and Norfolk Police to monitor both sites.

Andrew Raine, environment manager at the Agency, added: "The Environment Agency continues to target all unauthorised waste activity. Through this Restriction Order we are demonstrating we will continue to use the full range of powers available to us to protect the environment and people and tackle those responsible."

Anybody who witnesses waste being taken onto, or burning at this or any other site, has been urged to email EAN-Enforcement-West@environment-agency.gov.uk

People can also get in contact via an incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60, or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.