Four Tonnes Of Cannabis Waste Dumped At Brede High Woods As Hastings Wildlife Put At Risk

More than four tonnes of cannabis cultivation waste has been illegally dumped at Brede High Woods over the past year, prompting a public appeal for information.

The Woodland Trust says black bags filled with soil waste, propagation kits, tubing and equipment linked to commercial cannabis production have been abandoned across the ancient woodland near Cripps Corner, around six miles from Hastings.

A further 20 bags are still awaiting removal.

As the landowner, the charity is legally responsible for clearing the waste – a task which has already cost more than £2,000 in skip hire and contractor fees, diverting money away from conservation work.

Helen Osorio, site manager at Brede High Woods, described the situation as “disgusting and relentless”, warning of both the financial and environmental impact.

She said:

“It’s expensive, environmentally damaging and deeply frustrating for staff and visitors.

"We’re asking local people to be vigilant, report anything suspicious to the police, and help us protect Brede High Woods from this ongoing criminal activity.”

Brede High Woods is one of the South East’s most important ecological sites, spanning more than 260 hectares of ancient woodland, grassland, heath, streams and ponds.

The reserve supports a wide range of rare and protected species, including nightingales, great crested newts and water voles.

It is also home to the brook lamprey – one of the UK’s most ancient vertebrates – and an extremely rare flea beetle found nowhere else in the country.

The Woodland Trust warns that illegal dumping risks contaminating soil and watercourses, threatening these sensitive habitats.

In addition to fly-tipping, there has been a rise in reports of poaching and illegal access by quad bikes and trail motorbikes, causing damage to fragile areas of woodland.

The charity has begun blocking unauthorised entry points and installing wildlife cameras to deter offenders, particularly ahead of spring – typically a peak period for such activity.

The Woodland Trust says it is working closely with Sussex Police and is urging anyone who sees suspicious behaviour to report it by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.