‘Disgraceful behaviour’: Councillors ‘fed up’ after mattresses found dumped in Sandwell

A slice of West Bromwich countryside has become a fly-tipping hotspot as ‘disgraceful behaviour’ has devastated Sandwell Crematorium’s surroundings.

Councillor Bob Jones has encouraged residents to check they know who is disposing of their waste, and to report any instances of fly-tipping to the council.

Fly-tippers in Sandwell can face fines of up to £20,000, however, warnings on Forge Lane are being flagrantly disregarded by offenders, with mattresses, bedframes, clothes and other household waste being left directly under the council’s signs.

Mr Jones, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement, said: “We are aware this is an ongoing issue and continue to carry out clearances together with Serco and Birmingham City Council and use evidence gathered to identify perpetrators and take enforcement action.

“We are fed up with this disgraceful behaviour, and we will not stand for it in Sandwell.

“We continue to monitor the area and, where sufficient evidence is available, we will issue fines to fly-tippers or take them to court.

“Stopping fly-tipping and the number of clean-ups needed will help save council taxpayers’ money.

“We encourage everyone to continue to report incidents of fly-tipping, and any evidence of who is responsible, via our website at www.sandwell.gov.uk/flytipping or by calling 0121 569 7474.

“We also urge residents to make sure they know who is taking away their waste – only use a licensed waste carrier or you could face a fine.”

In a statement, the council reminds residents that householders are responsible for making sure the person who collects their waste is a licensed waste carrier – or they face a £600 fixed penalty notice (or up to a £5,000 fine if convicted at court).

They also referred residents to their website or the number above to book a slot for bulky waste collections or at Oldbury tip.