The suspension notice, served to operator SMLF on 10 July 2026, prevents the company from accepting any further waste at the landfill with immediate effect.
According to the regulator, a recent survey found sections of the landfill exceeded the agreed tipping levels set out in the site’s environmental permit.
The suspension will remain in place until the operator has demonstrated compliance with the permit requirements.
Inspections carried out since the notice was issued have indicated that the operator is complying with the suspension, although officers will continue to monitor the site to ensure no additional waste is brought onto the landfill.
SMLF has two months to appeal the decision through the Planning Inspectorate, and the suspension notice will remain in force while any appeal is considered.
Odour complaints about Seaton Meadows landfill
The action follows complaints from residents living near Seaton Meadows landfill, who have previously called for the site to be closed because of odour issues.
Gary Wallace, Environment Agency Area Environment Manager, said: “We understand the community concerns about this site and we’ve taken decisive action to suspend the permit to prevent any more waste from being deposited.
“We are committed to ensuring this landfill is completed appropriately and safely and we will take further action if necessary to ensure this happens.”
The Environment Agency explained that residents may continue to see machinery moving material around the site as the operator works to bring waste levels back into compliance.
However, no further waste should be accepted during the suspension period.
Residents have also expressed concerns about plans for an Energy from Waste facility to be built in Hartlepool by developer Qualitech Environmental Services (QES).
A consultation for residents was held in June, with plans for the company to submit a formal application later this year.
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