Asbestos Waste Dumped and Burned Near Sheffield Schools and Care Home

On October 22nd, 2025, an investigation was launched after asbestos waste was illegally dumped and set on fire near a nursery school and care home in Sheffield. The incident, which occurred over the previous weekend, has sparked outrage among local residents and officials.

According to Sheffield City Council, contractors had attended the site on Friday to remove part of the asbestos waste, with the remaining portion being wrapped and labeled for safe collection. However, the council's attempts to have the rest of the waste removed on Saturday were unsuccessful, leading to the wrapped bundle being deliberately set ablaze in an act of arson.

The council has expressed its deep concern over the "appalling" incident, particularly given the proximity of the affected area to schools, nurseries, and care homes, as well as its popularity with dog walkers and families. Local MP Louise Haigh has also condemned the dumping of the hazardous material, stating that she wants to see the council use all available powers to identify and appropriately sanction those responsible.

Sheffield City Council has assured residents that the site has since been made safe, with the remaining asbestos waste removed by a specialist firm. The council is now actively investigating the incident, working closely with South Yorkshire Police to determine if any CCTV footage or local intelligence can assist in identifying the culprits.