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24 August 2018

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has issued a warning letter to Tarmac Cement and Lime Limited following an investigation into dust in the Dunbar area.

SEPA officers carried out an investigation into dust deposits in the local area after receiving a number of complaints from members of the public in September and October 2017.

The investigation concluded that the Tarmac site was the most likely source of the dust issues and that the operator needed to take action to prevent and minimise the potential escape of dust from the site.

The warning letter advises the operator that SEPA expects them to review existing procedures for monitoring and detection of dust emissions from the plant equipment and activities at the site. The letter also advises the operator that SEPA expects them to carry out earlier and more proactive identification of excessive dust emissions before complaints are made, and that SEPA will undertake a review of the site’s permit.

This review is now underway, and SEPA is also undertaking a separate investigation in response to dust complaints in Dunbar during May 2018.

Terry A’Hearn, SEPA’s Chief Executive, said:

Every day SEPA works to protect and enhance Scotland’s environment and we are clear that compliance is non-negotiable. SEPA has carried out a full investigation into the causes of the dust complaints in Dunbar from September and October 2017. This investigation has now concluded and a warning letter has been issued to Tarmac Cement and Lime Limited in Dunbar.   SEPA is clear that practices should be improved to prevent further events and ensure full compliance. The review of the operator’s permit is a key part of the steps SEPA is taking.  We are also undertaking a further investigation into complaints received about dust in May 2018 and will take all action necessary to ensure the environment and local communities are protected.”

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24 August 2018

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is reminding people in Perthshire, Clackmannanshire and Stirling of the importance of checking staff credentials, after a homeowner in Greenloaning was visited by a man impersonating a SEPA officer.

They were visited on Saturday 17 August by an individual who told them he was from SEPA. He wanted to inspect trees on their property to see if work, which they would have to pay for, was required. They refused his request and informed SEPA.

SEPA’s Chief Executive, Terry A’Hearn, said:

“We understand that this was a worrying incident for those involved and have reported the matter to Police Scotland. SEPA officers do not carry out work on people’s property, and if anyone else has a similar experience I encourage them to contact the Police straight away.”

“All SEPA staff carry appropriate photographic identification and should always show it to you. If you are approached by someone claiming to be from SEPA ask to see their ID, especially if you don’t recognise them.

“Anyone with any concerns, can always call SEPA’s 24 hour Contact Centre on 03000 99 66 99 to check out the details of any officers visiting them.”

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