Asbestos and fridges among items dumped as council struggles to cope with fly-tipping reports
Sheets of asbestos and unwanted fridges are just some of the items dumped in Staffordshire so far this month.
More than 50 reports of fly-tipping have been sent to Lichfield District Council, which is calling for witnesses as it continues to clear up the rubbish, including an old mattress and builder's rubble.
Ben Percival, head of operational services, said: “Our team is struggling to cope with the sheer number of fly-tipping incidents, which seem to get worse around bank holidays.
“Everyone can help us keep the district free of fly-tipping by making sure they only use properly licensed companies to dispose of waste on their behalf.
“So, when employing a gardener, tree surgeon, builder or house clearance company, it’s important to check they have a waste carrier licence, which means they can legally remove your waste. If they cannot produce this paperwork, please don’t use them.
“We’re also calling on anyone who may have seen the culprits in the act of fly-tipping to report it to us to help us with our investigations.
“The cost of removing fly-tipping is funded by Lichfield District residents, and the more spent on clearing up this type of environmental crime the less can be spent on other services that benefit the district.”
Useful information needed includes the date, time, location and type of waste being dumped, vehicle details, a description of the people involved, as well as any photographic or video evidence of the offence taking place.
To report fly-tipping or information about a recent fly-tipping offence, visit Lichfield District Council's website or call 01543 308999.
