Report illegal fly-tippers to us urges county council

Don’t waste our time with waste crime – that’s the message from Denbighshire County Council as it responds to a national increase in fly-tipping across the country.

Some local authorities across the UK have seen examples of fly-tipping during the current coronavirus outbreak and resources that are already stretched to the limit are having to take action to clear areas from the rubbish being dumped by a minority of people.

There are also concerns nationally about some companies using coronavirus as a reason to provide illegal waste removal services and targeting households with offers to dispose of rubbish.

Councillor Brian Jones, Cabinet Lead Member for Waste, Transport and the Environment,  said: “Fly-tipping is a blight on the county’s landscape when it happens and it’s an issue that has been raised by our residents as one of the main issues they would like us to address.

“We are so fortunate to live in such beautiful surroundings and the vast majority of Denbighshire residents act responsibly and do not dump waste in areas such as fields, roadsides and open countryside.

“However, the council has dealt with incidents of fly-tipping in the past, caused  by a minority of individuals who think it’s acceptable to dump waste wherever they want. It’s against the law and will not be tolerated in Denbighshire.

“We are also concerned about some individuals who offer to remove waste illegally and use the situation with coronavirus as a reason for making money. 

"Residents who are arranging such services should ask the companies to show their waste carriers licence, to obtain a receipt and to find out where the waste is heading.  

"All waste must to be taken to a licensed site. If the company cannot provide these details then residents should get in touch with the council.

“We fully recognise that law-abiding residents will be frustrated that our waste and recycling parks are closed and the recent good weather has promoted people to have a clear out at home.  We are asking people to be patient. 

"We are in unprecedented times and we are all needing to live with changes which can be frustrating, but essential if we are to play our part in protecting our communities from spread of coronavirus."

If anyone knows of individuals or incidents of fly-tipping, they should contact the council on 01824 706000, or report it online: www.denbighshire.gov.uk