The Environment Agency has suspended the environmental permit for Emmersons Transport LTD, a waste site in Portsmouth, effective from Monday 20 July. This action means the company must cease physical treatment of waste, including crushing and screening, until the risk of pollution is removed.
The suspension follows an inspection on 7 July, part of Operation Unite, a nationwide enforcement operation. Officers identified several issues related to dust emissions, including waste piles up to 5 metres high, uncleaned site surfaces, and a crusher moved to discharge outside the main building.
Michael Turner, Area Environment Manager for the Environment Agency, stated that Emmersons Transport LTD failed to limit harmful dust emissions, endangering neighbouring businesses and local habitats. The site is near Hilsea Lines local wildlife site and the Solent and Dorset Coast Special Protection Area, with dust deposits potentially affecting these protected areas.
Emmersons Transport LTD has been ordered to implement corrective actions by 31 July 2026. These include moving the crusher, reducing waste pile heights, repairing perimeter netting, and installing effective mist sprays to control dust. The company has two months to appeal the decision, though the requirements of the notice must still be met.