Residents are being encouraged to help tackle fly-tipping in Worcester, as the City Council launches a programme of activity across the city.
Fly-tipping Fortnight is taking place across the country between 12 and 25 October.
Fly-tipping is dumping items or rubbish on land, without a licence in place for them to be left legally.
Mattresses, electrical goods and household rubbish left in streets and public spaces can create a nuisance and give the impression that neighbourhoods are being neglected.
Fly-tipping can sometimes be linked to unauthorised waste collectors, often referred to as "man with a van" operators, who charge people to remove waste before illegally dumping it elsewhere.
The City Council is reminding residents to check that anyone removing waste on their behalf holds a valid Waste Carriers Licence.
If waste is traced back to a property and there is no evidence that it was handed to an authorised waste carrier, the householder can face prosecution.
During Fly-Tipping Fortnight, City Council staff will visit communities in Worcester to talk to residents about the impact of fly-tipping. They will be working to raise awareness of the waste disposal services that the City Council offers to all Worcester residents, including its bulky waste collection service that can be booked on the City Council website.
If any fly-tipping is spotted during these visits, the City Council officers will consider taking enforcement action, which can include fines and prosecution.
Anybody who sees fly-tipping in Worcester can report it on the City Council’s website.
Councillor Karen Lewing, Vice Chair of Worcester City Council’s Environment Committee said: “Keeping Worcester clean, safe and welcoming for residents and visitors is a priority for the City Council.
“During Fly-tipping Fortnight we will be providing advice about disposing waste responsibly and legally, including through our bulky waste collection service.
“While the Council responds quickly to reports and ensures fly-tipped waste on public land is removed as quickly as possible, prevention is just as important. We also investigate cases of fly-tipping wherever possible and take appropriate enforcement action against the perpetrators.
“Tackling fly-tipping is a responsibility shared by everyone in Worcester. By checking that waste carriers are licensed and reporting incidents when they occur at www.worcester.gov.uk/report-it, residents can play an important role in helping us to keep our city clean.
“By working together, we can protect our neighbourhoods and ensure Worcester remains a city that we can all be proud of.”
