A tipper truck suspected of being involved in flytipping incidents has been crushed today, with the metals being recycled.
The vehicle was previously seized as part of a flytip investigation, with flytippers being warned that a similar fate awaits their vehicle if they are caught and prosecution also being a probability where the evidence exists.
The news follows recent appeals for information which could lead to the successful prosecution of a flytipper, with enviro-crime rewards of up to £500 being offered for information.
Councillor Angela Page, Executive Councillor for Public Protection and Enforcement said, “Flytipping is a serious issue which is not just unsightly, but can have very stark consequences when the dumped rubbish is left in the road, on a country lane for instance, with a motorist coming across this, with little or no warning. We cannot always disclose the outcomes for a variety of reasons, including legal reasons, but, be assured, we do investigate all flytipping reports and no one should be in any doubt that where the evidence exists, we will prosecute and or crush the vehicle, depending on circumstances. Please report dumped rubbish where you come across it and come forwards as a witness if you saw the incident.”
Councillor Page continued, “If you are having work done or looking to dispose of bulky items, then make sure you are using someone who is bonafide and check their details. You have a legal duty of care to do this, which also applies to traders as well but it is yet another way that by working together, we can and indeed are making a difference.”
In this example, the vehicle was seized some time ago, with the investigation continuing when covid restrictions were in place. The owner of the vehicle did not come forwards to claim their vehicle, with vehicle then being crushed.
Residents are being reminded of the importance to carefully check whether tradespeople they employ have a waste carriers’ licence. Residents are advised to ask to see the permit to check what kind of waste disposal or recovery the business is registered for. In addition, the register can be checked by going to the Environment Agency website at https://environment.data.gov.uk/public-register/view/search-waste-carriers-brokers or by calling 03708 506 506.
Ends
Notes to editors:
- The council operates an enviro crime reward scheme with rewards of up to £500 available for information leading to the successful prosecution of offenders.
- The offence of fly-tipping is set out in section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The maximum penalties for fly-tipping on summary conviction are a £50,000 fine and/or twelve months’ imprisonment. On conviction in a Crown Court the maximum penalties are an unlimited fine and/or five years imprisonment.
For media enquiries, please contact Andrew Rogers, Head of Public Affairs, on 020 8461 7670 or email Andrew.Rogers@bromley.gov.uk.