Witney News - Fly-tipping down in West Oxfordshire

Fly-tipping down in West Oxfordshire

Latest figures show that fly-tipping has reduced by nearly a third in West Oxfordshire since 2006, when the District Council set up a team dedicated to cracking down on the problem.

In 2006-07, there were 736 reported fly-tips. Latest figures for 2012-13 show 503 incidents were reported.

The Council introduced an Environmental Enforcement Team in 2007 to combat fly-tipping and other environmental crimes. As a result of investigations led by the small team, 21 people have been prosecuted for fly-tipping related offences.

For more minor fly-tipping offences, 61 people have been given £80 Fixed Penalty fines, 15 have been formally cautioned and 219 warning letters issued. The team has also conducted 792 duty of care inspections which is an effective way of advising residents and businesses how to dispose of their waste correctly.

Cllr David Harvey, Cabinet Member for Environment said:

“Fly-tipping is a scourge on the environment and so we are pleased that the Council’s actions have helped to clamp down on this problem.

“Our Environmental Enforcement Team works closely with both the Police and Environment Agency and we use a range of methods, including CCTV, to investigate incidents reported to us.

“Members of the public help enormously too, not only by reporting fly tips so that we can clear them up as quickly as possible, but also by contacting us when they have witnessed suspicious behaviour.”

Anyone caught fly-tipping could face prosecution and stands to receive a fine up to £50,000 or maximum imprisonment of five years.

Fly-tipping can be reported online at www.westoxon.gov.uk/reportit or by calling 01993 861060