Spies on flytip pests offered £100 reward
People who report flytipping to a council this year are in line for a £100 reward if information leads to a successful prosecution.
People who report flytipping to a council this year are in line for a £100 reward if information leads to a successful prosecution.
The scheme has been approved by Cannock Chase Council after a successful three-month trial.
During 2008-2009, there were 578 reported incidents of flytipping, with 443 coming from members of the public. A Tidy Britain Group survey in the Cannock Chase District found that 79 per cent of respondents were very or fairly likely to report a local environmental problem.
Residents who see someone tipping rubbish are asked to make a note of the time and date, location, description of waste tipped, vehicle registration number and, if possible, a description of the flytipper.
These details can then be passed on to Cannock Chase Council as soon as possible on 01543 462621. An on-line form can also be completed at www.cannockchasedc. gov. uk.
Councillor Tony Williams, environmental sustainability leader, said: "Cannock Chase Council has a zero tolerance attitude in the battle against the flytippers and we will always prosecute where there is sufficient evidence.
"The residents' response to our campaign has shown that the majority of the public believe flytipping is offensive, as well as illegal, and that it blights our area.
"The maximum fine at magistrates' court for a flytipping offence is £50,000 and up to five years in prison."
Councillor Williams added: "There is just no excuse for illegally dumping rubbish, often in some of the most beautiful spots in our district. I appeal to residents to report any flytipping to the council on 01543 462621.
"The reward scheme sends an important message to these environmental criminals that we take it seriously and is also a deterrent to those who may be considering flytipping as they know the public is watching."
After the festive period, residents are being urged to use the household recycling centres in the district – Lichfield Road, Cannock, which is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 4.30pm, Ring Road, Chase Terrace, Burntwood, open Friday to Tuesday from 9am-4.30pm, and Station Road, Rugeley, open Friday to Tuesday, 9am-4.30pm.
