Major campaign against fly tipping starts in west Oxfordshire

Fly tipping costs the taxpayer many thousands in removal costs

Fly tipping is on the rise all around the country forcing district councils to investigate and clear unsightly rubbish that has been dumped illegally, often on farmland or roadsides.

Created by the Hertfordshire Fly Tipping Group, the SCRAP Campaign has been run successfully in other areas of the country using know-how and resources sourced from many local authorities.

It is being adopted by West Oxfordshire District Council which aims to raise awareness of the issue and inform residents and businesses about the law and their obligations around fly-tipping.

Domestic items often get dumped rather than being recycled or taken to an amenity tip

It includes explaining to residents what fly tipping is. educating residents on how to dispose of their waste correctly, informing residents how to report a fly tip and highlighting penalties if caught fly tipping.

Over the next few weeks, the district will be running an online campaign highlighting key information such as how to check for a waste carrier’s licence and information on disposing different types of waste.

Residents are encouraged to follow the council on Twitter @WodcNews and Facebook at @westoxfordshire to find out more about the campaign.

Cllr Norman MacRae, Cabinet Member for the Environment at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We all have a responsibility for our local environment and protecting it from the harm caused by fly tipping. This campaign enforces the message that no corners should be cut when it comes to disposing of waste responsibly and that anyone caught doing so can expect high penalties if successfully prosecuted.”