Solihull Council install new cameras in crack down on fly-tipping

Solihull Council is cracking down on fly-tipping by installing covert cameras in a bid to catch criminals in the act.

In the last three years the council has spent over £332,000 clearing up fly-tipping across the borough.

The new hidden cameras, which can be viewed and controlled remotely, will make it easier for council officers to gather evidence to prosecute those who illegally dump waste.

Since April 2015 Solihull Council has been exercising new powers granted to local authorities in their pursuit of fly-tippers – including powers to seize vehicles that they suspect are involved in fly-tipping.

In November a successful prosecution was brought against a man living in Meriden for committing two offences under Section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act, following an investigation by the Council’s Environmental Crime team.

He was ordered to pay a total of £2,383, including a £530 fine and court costs.

Solihull residents can help the council clamp down on fly-tipping by reporting it. This can be done by calling 0121 704 8001, emailing connectcc@solihull.gov.uk or visiting their website https://eservices.solihull.gov.uk/CRMOnlineFormsEngine/Default.aspx?form=EM-Fly%20Tipping

If you witness someone fly-tipping, make a note of the date and time you saw it and try to get a description of any vehicles involved, including registration numbers.

Fly-tipping is a criminal offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

It is punishable by a fine of up to £50,000 or 12 months imprisonment if convicted in a Magistrates’ Court – or an unlimited fine and up to five years imprisonment if convicted in a Crown Court.

Councillor Karen Grinsell, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities & Partnerships, said: “We’re committed to reducing the impact of fly-tipping both in terms of cost and damage to the environment.

“I welcome the new cameras, as they will grant more flexibility and increase our ability to catch people both dumping and transporting waste illegally.”

Councillor Tony Diccico, Cabinet Member for Environment, Housing and Regeneration, added: “Not only is it a blight on our borough, but fly-tipping costs the UK tax payer millions of pounds each year.

“This is money which could be better spent on other important services, so I fully support any action which helps to stamp it out.”

Read more: http://www.solihull.gov.uk/news/ArtMID/820/ArticleID/1067/New-cameras-to-crack-down-on-fly-tipping