News

Counting the cost of fly tipping

Cllr Press

Calderdale residents are being urged to dispose of any rubbish responsibly, following a number of recent fly tipping cases in the borough.

The Council’s Community Safety Wardens have attended a number of fly tipping incidents throughout Calderdale in recent weeks, including cases at Albert Promenade in Halifax, Cold Edge Road at Wainstalls, Donkey Hill outside Halifax and Haigh Lane in Siddal.

Investigations into the crimes are taking place and evidence is being collected to find the culprits. In one case prosecutions are already underway which may result in large fine and potential seizure of vehicle.

Cases like these demonstrate that fly tipping will not be tolerated at any time in Calderdale. It is a serious crime and all instances of fly tipping will be investigated further – the Council won’t hesitate to prosecute those responsible.

In line with Government guidance of avoiding non-essential travel, all Household Waste Recycling Centres in the borough are closed. However, during this closure period, residents are encouraged to store bulky waste, or if urgent, consider hiring a private skip or professional waste carrier if available.

If hiring a professional, it is essential that they are a registered waste carrier. Ask to see their licence before agreeing to hand over waste. If you don’t and it ends up fly-tipped, you could face a big fine.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, Cllr Susan Press, said:

“Fly tipping is illegal, dangerous, disruptive and spoils our environment. It’s also costly, as both clearing the waste and investigating the perpetrators is expensive. Although it’s carried out by a selfish minority, the dumping of waste affects us all.

“Council staff continue to monitor incidents of fly tipping and each case will be thoroughly investigated. We think this time and money could be better spent, especially as we face challenges associated with COVID-19; so we urge everyone to be responsible for their own rubbish and continue to report any instances of fly tipping.”

If people do witness fly tipping, in all cases, having as much information as possible helps to bring successful prosecutions. The following details are most helpful:

  • The day, date, time and location of the fly tipping;
  • A description of any people involved;
  • What was fly tipped and how much;
  • Details of any vehicle involved, including registration number, colour, make and model;
  • Any photo evidence.

Fly tipping can be reported at www.calderdale.gov.uk/doitonline