Last week, the Environment Agency (EA), accompanied by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Sefton Council and Merseyside Police, visited the Crowland Street premises of Johnson’s Scrap Metal, which trades as Johnson’s Skip Hire.
The action follows an ongoing EA investigation into activities at the site on Crowland Industrial Estate.
Councillor Peter Harvey, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Cleansing at Sefton Council, commented: “This action demonstrates how Sefton Council will stand alongside our partners, such as the Environment Agency, to protect our residents and our environment from rogue waste operators”.
Johnson Scrap Metal permit revoked
The EA confirmed that the site’s waste permit was formally revoked at the start of the year, in January 2025.
The revocation means Johnson’s Scrap Metal is no longer authorised to carry out any form of waste operation, including accepting, storing or processing waste materials.
Under the terms of the revocation, the operator is also required to clear the site of all remaining waste.
However, EA officers say their investigations suggest the company has continued to operate despite the ban.
A spokesperson for the EA said: “Our priority is to protect the environment and communities from illegal waste activity and we will take tough action when operators flout the law.
“Effective regulation is vital and those who operate outside the law undercut legitimate businesses.
“We expect businesses to take responsibility for their operations and protect the environment.”
The Agency has issued a warning to local residents and businesses that it is a criminal offence to send waste to Johnson’s Skip Hire at the Crowland Street site.
The company was previously fined £10,000 and ordered to pay costs of £4,000, after an employee sustained “serious injuries” in 2021.