A SITE in Rudford has come under scrutiny after allegations of long-running illegal dumping, with Forest of Dean District Council taking formal action against the landowner.

The council has instructed the owner to cease depositing materials on the land, citing serious breaches of environmental regulations.

The land, registered to Marshall Oldham, has reportedly been used for tipping intermittently over several decades, with residents saying activity has intensified in recent months. Locals have raised concerns about the impact on footpaths, wildlife, and the surrounding environment.

The council confirmed that a Planning Enforcement Notice has been served on the landowner. It states that unauthorised activities, including the import and movement of construction waste, must stop immediately.

Officials emphasised that the action is part of the council’s commitment to enforcing environmental standards and holding landowners accountable.

The Environment Agency is also investigating the Rudford location as part of a broader clampdown on illegal waste sites in Gloucestershire.

An agency spokesperson said: “Illegal waste causes serious harm to communities and the environment. We are using every measure at our disposal to stop those profiting from it, working closely with councils and police.”

Mr Oldham has denied any wrongdoing, with his planning agent describing the claims as “without foundation.”

Residents in the village have voiced ongoing frustration about the scale of tipping and the damage it causes. Aside from the visual impact, concerns have been raised about contamination of the land and the disruption to local paths used by walkers and cyclists.

The Environment Agency urges anyone who suspects illegal dumping to report it on their 24-hour hotline, 0800 807060, or to Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555111.

The council’s enforcement action, alongside the EA investigation, is expected to address the reported issues at the Rudford site and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.