The Environment Agency has issued a new regulatory position statement (RPS) 329, published on 17 December 2024, specifically addressing the storage, depollution, and dismantling of waste motorcycles. While compliance with an environmental permit remains a legal requirement for these activities, RPS 329 provides a temporary framework under which enforcement action may not be taken, provided certain conditions are met.
This development is particularly relevant for operators in the waste motorcycle treatment sector who hold the standard rules permit SR2021 No 12 for vehicle storage, depollution, and dismantling. Below is an overview of the guidance and the critical conditions businesses must follow.
Scope of RPS 329
RPS 329 applies exclusively to activities involving:
- Storing, depolluting, and dismantling waste motorcycles.
- Operations conducted under the SR2021 No 12 standard rules permit.
Key Conditions for Compliance
Operators relying on RPS 329 must meet stringent conditions to avoid enforcement action:
- Full Compliance with SR2021 No 12: All activities must adhere to the standard rules permit’s requirements.
- Activity-Specific Limits:
- No more than 40 waste motorcycles may be stored at any one time.
- No more than 40 waste motorcycles may be depolluted or dismantled per week.
- Record-Keeping:
- Maintain detailed records for a minimum of six years from the last use of this RPS.
- Ensure records are readily accessible to the Environment Agency upon request.
- Preventing Pollution and Harm: Activities must not:
- Cause pollution to water, air, or soil.
- Pose risks to plants, animals, or human health.
- Generate nuisance through noise or odours.
- Harm the countryside or areas of special interest.
Review and Expiry Timeline
The Environment Agency intends to review RPS 329 by 1 September 2026. Businesses must monitor updates to ensure ongoing compliance, as the RPS may be amended or withdrawn before this review date.
Subscribers can receive email updates to stay informed about any changes or the withdrawal of RPS 329.
Non-Compliance Protocol
Operators unable to comply with RPS 329 must:
- Immediately cease the relevant activities.
- Notify the Environment Agency without delay by emailing enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk with “RPS 329” in the subject line.
Implications for Operators
RPS 329 offers flexibility to operators in managing waste motorcycles, provided they meet the outlined requirements. It is crucial to stay within the specified limits, maintain records diligently, and monitor updates to avoid penalties or enforcement action.
For further clarification or inquiries, operators can contact the Environment Agency at wastetreatment@environment-agency.gov.uk
This RPS is a significant development for businesses in the waste motorcycle industry, balancing operational flexibility with environmental safeguards. Compliance with RPS 329 not only helps mitigate risks of enforcement but also reinforces the sector’s commitment to sustainable waste management practices.
Source: www.gov.uk
