Warning to householders after big rise in Lichfield fly-tipping
Residents have been warned to take care when employing household traders after a big rise in fly-tipping incidents around Lichfield.
Lichfield District Council has reported a 60 per cent increase in fly-tipping around the district, with a rising number of rogue traders who offer to remove waste for a fee, but then go onto dump it.
The council has issued a reminder to residents about the issue, with Councillor Richard Cox, cabinet member for waste, speaking about the issues around fly-tipping.
He said: "It’s unacceptable and really disappointing that so much fly-tipping is happening on local roads throughout the district. It is both unsightly and expensive for our teams to clean up.
"Judging by the waste that we’re finding, we suspect rogue traders are going door to door and offering to remove household rubbish and then dumping it on local roads.
Councillor Cox also spoke about what residents could do to ensure their waste was disposed of correctly.
She said: "Everyone can help us to keep the district free of fly-tipping by making sure they only use properly licensed companies to dispose of waste on their behalf.
"So, when employing a gardener, tree surgeon, builder or house clearance company, it’s important to check they have a waste carriers’ licence, which means they can legally remove your waste.
"If they cannot produce this paperwork, don’t use them as they could go on to dump your waste."
As well as local household recycling centres in Lichfield and Burntwood, local households can use the council’s bulky wastes service to dispose of unwanted bulky items.
The service costs £15.50 for the first item and £6.40 for every subsequent item.
The service can be booked online at lichfielddc.gov.uk/bulkywaste or by calling 0345 002 0022.
To report fly-tipping or if you have information about a recent fly-tipping offence, call Lichfield District Council on 01543 308999 or go to lichfielddc.gov.uk/report
