- Over four tonnes of cannabis farm waste has been illegally dumped at Brede High Woods near Hastings, Sussex, over the past year, prompting an alert from the conservation charity Woodland Trust.
- The waste, which includes soil, propagation kits, and production equipment, poses a significant threat to the ancient woodland's rare and protected wildlife, such as nightingales, great-crested newts, and the unique flea beetle.
- Helen Osorio, site manager at Brede High Woods, described the scale of the fly-tipping as "disgusting and relentless," noting that the Woodland Trust has already spent over £2,000 on clean-up efforts, diverting vital funds from conservation projects.
- In addition to cannabis waste, the site is also contending with increased poaching and damage from illegal quad and trail bikers, particularly during the spring season.
- The Woodland Trust is working with Sussex Police, blocking unauthorised access routes, installing wildlife cameras, and urging the public to report any suspicious behaviour to help protect the woods.
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