Residents in Kirkby are being urged to be cautious after reports of a man approaching households to offer rubbish removal services, only to illegally dump the waste in other people’s gardens. Local officials are reminding residents that they are legally responsible for ensuring their waste is handled by an authorised carrier, as using an unlicensed operator can lead to unlimited fines.
This warning comes as the community deals with ongoing issues regarding illegal waste disposal. In February 2026, authorities discovered a large illegal waste dump containing approximately 30,000 tonnes of rubbish near the M57 motorway. To address such environmental crimes, Knowsley Council launched a new in-house Environmental Enforcement team on 10 March 2026. This team is tasked with tackling fly-tipping and littering, with offenders now facing a minimum fine of £400 and potential prison sentences.
The Environment Agency is also taking action against illegal waste operations in the area. On 23 March 2026, the agency conducted a multi-agency operation that resulted in the revocation of an environmental permit for an operator and the closure of two illegal waste sites bordering Kirkby at the Simonswood and Williams Brothers Industrial Estates.
Homeowners are advised to verify the credentials of any waste removal service before handing over items such as furniture or bags of rubbish. You can check if a carrier is authorised by visiting the Environment Agency website or by calling 03708 506506. Reports of fly-tipping can be submitted through the Knowsley Council website, while major incidents should be reported to the Environment Agency at 0800 80 70 60. Crimes witnessed in progress should be reported to the police by calling 999.
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