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Europe's largest illegal dump: urgent action demanded
29 Jan
Summary
- Councillors demand urgent action to secure the contaminated Mobuoy dump.
- The illegal dump site spans over 100 acres and contains 1.6m tonnes of waste.
- Concerns grow over security breaches, fly-tipping, and anti-social behaviour.
Councillors have urgently called for enhanced security measures at the Mobuoy dump in County Londonderry, a site recognized as one of Europe's most extensive illegal waste disposal locations. Discovered in 2013, this contaminated site covers more than 100 acres.
Investigations indicate the presence of approximately 1.6 million tonnes of waste. Some waste dates back to the 1960s, but a significant portion is linked to an illegal operation between 2011 and 2013.
Last year, two men were jailed for environmental crimes on an industrial scale, related to the illegal dumping. Their actions were motivated by substantial financial gain, with potential profits estimated at over £30 million for one company.
However, security at the vast site remains a major concern. Reports indicate ongoing unauthorized access, fly-tipping, and anti-social behaviour. Local authorities are pressing for immediate preventative actions, including perimeter fencing and surveillance, to address the escalating public safety and environmental risks.
