Local concern as ‘hazardous’ waste left months at Dartmoor beauty spot

A pile of “hazardous” waste has sat uncollected for months at a Dartmoor beauty spot, leaving local residents concerned for safety and the environment. 

The waste, located at Lettaford car park, near Moretonhampstead, is known to be a popular area for walkers and cyclists.

The material, described by one resident as asbestos, was first reported to authorities in early November 2025 but remains in place despite repeated attempts to have it removed.

Mrs Young, a resident of Moretonhampstead who regularly cycles across Dartmoor, first noticed the material and reported it to Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNP). 

She said she was told the matter was the responsibility of Teignbridge District Council. Attempts to report it via the council’s website showed the case was already logged and then marked as closed a day or two later, even though the material remained on site.

“I left it into December, still nothing changed,” Mrs Young said.

“When it’s windy, the material gets moved around the car park, which is very exposed. It’s toxic hazardous material and gives the wrong impression to others visiting the area.”

Teignbridge District Council confirmed to The Moorlander that the waste was reported to them on 8 November 2025.

A council spokesperson said: “As the material is not located on land owned or managed by the council, Teignbridge is not responsible for assessing the waste or arranging its removal, and the report was therefore closed on our system.”

Following enquiries with Dartmoor National Park Authority, the council was informed that the Duchy of Cornwall owns the land.

The park authority notified the Duchy in November 2025 so that appropriate action could be arranged. 

Mrs Young said she attempted to report the waste again shortly before Christmas but received no resolution. She described the situation as “very frustrating” and questioned the lack of continuity between organisations responsible for maintaining the area.

The Moorlander understands discussions with the Duchy are ongoing.