Anger as selfish flytippers blight Calderdale dumping piles of rubbish during lockdown restrictions

Calderdale 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.

The Council confirmed that on one case prosecutions are already underway which may result in large fine and potential seizure of vehicle.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, Councillor Susan Press, said cases like these demonstrate that fly tipping will not be tolerated at any time in Calderdale.

“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," said Coun Press.

“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.”

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, the Council is urging residents 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.

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