Flytipping Update

Occasionally there has been flytipping on the edges the neighbourhood, as well as bulky waste such as furniture being dumped within the neighbourhood itself.  Newcastle City Council takes a strong view over such activities.

The depositing of waste in large quantity such as large electrical items and large amounts of general rubbish will be dealt with under section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.  Penalties were increased in England and Wales by Part 5 Chapter 2 of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005. Fly-tippers can be fined up to £50,000 in the Magistrates' Courts, or face unlimited fines in the Crown Courts, as well as community punishment orders or prison sentences of up to 5 years.

In addition, those found guilty may also have to pay legal costs and compensation.

Action may also be taken against proprietors / landlords or occupants living at properties under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 through a community protection notice requiring him/her to control the behaviour of themselves, occupants and guests, or be prosecuted.

Fixed penalty notices of £200 for less serious offences, for instance a fridge / mattress or a bed base deposited can be issued to the person responsible.  In order for this to happen, the local authority cannot go off hearsay or people assuming but hard evidence.  For example, a complainant witnessed the offence personally with their own eyes and is willing to provide a written statement and attend court if required to do so.

If residents do see waste being deposited from vehicles, or a home, they should note details or take a photo. Members of the public tend to just focus on the item(s) deposited and not the person, or vehicle leaving the area from where the waste had come from.  Obtaining  photographic evidence of people and vehicle registrations are the key factors at that crucial time.

Incidents can be reported to Environmental Protection, Newcastle City Council - t: 0191 278 7878, e: psr@newcastle.gov.uk