It will come as no surprise to KENDRA members that fly-tipping has increased. According to data released this month, more than one million fly-tipping incidents were reported last year. That’s an increase of 38% since 2010. However, the number of fines fell.
The cost of dumping rubbish legally has increased substantially, while access to local dumps has become more difficult. Anyone who has hired a skip over the past few years will know how expensive they have become, largely down to the environmental charges imposed.
Builders will sometimes recommend clients take small amounts of waste to the dump themselves, to avoid commercial waste rates. Residents should be aware that if their waste is dumped illegally by someone working for them, the resident can be liable for prosecution.
Residents dumping non-recyclable waste will be aware of the restricted times operated by our local centres, some closing at 3.30pm on weekdays. At weekends there are often long queues, in traffic heavy areas.
KENDRA has asked our local Councillors to see if opening times could be more suited to residents’ requirements, perhaps with one or two late opening nights. The Council is yet to respond.
The cost of prosecuting offenders is, allegedly, greater than the cost of clearing up, so the councils may opt for the latter. If fly-tippers know they won’t be prosecuted, that must be an incentive not to obey the law.
The Environment Secretary Ranil Jayawardena has vowed to end the illegal dumping of waste in our towns and countryside by clamping down on the culprits. Presumably this will require substantial additional funding.
If you witness fly tipping or want to report it call Croydon Council 020 8604 7000 or email flytip@croydon.gov.uk – we recommend downloading the app at LoveCleanStreets