A fly-tipper has dumped a large quantity of rubbish in a quiet country lane at Berrow, prompting a new council warning.
The pile of waste, which includes an armchair, TV, dishwasher, tyres, masonry and broken glass, has been discarded in an entrance to a field off Brent Road, as pictured here.
Sedgemoor District Council says: “Fly tipping is a crime punishable by fine or imprisonment, a blot on the lovely local landscape and a potential threat to human health and that of wildlife and domesticated animals through injury or by polluting the environment.”
“It is the illegal dumping of waste. It is illegal to fly tip and anyone caught doing so is liable to prosecution, with fines of up to £50,000 or five years imprisonment.”
“The Council also has the power to issue Fixed Penalty Notices of £400 to anyone responsible for fly tipping.”
“Where waste is dumped from vehicles, the person controlling the use of the vehicle can be prosecuted, even if the driver is not identified.”
“The Police have the power to seize vehicles used for fly tipping, while those profiting from crime can have cash, property and other assets seized.”
“Sedgemoor District Council treats this problem very seriously and will take action against anyone caught fly tipping waste.”
Sedgemoor District Council – and soon the new unitary Somerset Council – is responsible for removing illegally dumped waste from public land and roadsides.
However, the removal of illegally dumped waste from private land is the responsibility of the landowner or occupier.
If you discover fly-tipped waste, follow these steps:
- Do not touch: fly tipped waste may be dangerous, as it can contain syringes, broken glass, asbestos, toxic chemicals or other hazardous substances.
- Visually inspect it: try to determine what it is and how much there is.
- Note the exact location of the waste and whether it is in a ditch or watercourse.
- Do not disturb the site: there may be evidence that could identify and convict the culprits.
- Report it to the Council by completing this form: Report Anti-Social Behaviour
If you witness someone fly tipping:
Please try to record the following details such as registration number, colour, make and model of the vehicle used; a description of the person/s fly tipping; any photographic evidence; the time, date and location where it happened. Never approach fly-tippers as they may be violent.
