Multi-agency Operation to Deter Fly-tipping

Published on: 31 Aug, 2024
Updated on: 2 Sep, 2024

Fly-tipping by the roadside. Image GBC

Guildford and Waverley Councils teamed up with the Environment Agency and Surrey Police to mount an operation against fly-tipping.

Officers focused on vehicles carrying waste and seized two that failed to comply with the law.

Two vehicles were seized for not having the right licences and one vehicle linked to an ongoing Environment Agency investigation was stopped and seized by police.

It is hoped that the action will have a deterrent effect resulting in fewer fly-tipping incidents across the county.

Cllr Merel Rehorst-Smith

The lead councillor for Regulatory and Democratic Services, Merel Rehorst-Smith (Lib Dem, Effingham), said: “Fly-tipping is not only unsightly but costs us and local landowners tens of thousands of pounds to clear each year. We urge all residents to be responsible with their waste disposal and report suspicious activity if they see it.

“We’re committed to building a community that values environmental responsibility. Together, we can keep Guildford clean and protect our environment.”

Guildford and Waverley Borough Council’s Assistant Director of Environmental Services, Marcus Harvey, added: “Fly-tipping remains a significant issue, affecting the countryside and costing the council a substantial amount of taxpayers’ money.

“We adopt a zero-tolerance stance on fly-tipping in Waverley borough and employ various strategies to catch and prosecute offenders, including covert CCTV cameras in hotspots and increased patrols by officers. We urge residents to report any fly-tipping incidents or suspicious activities either online or by calling our team at 01483 523524.

“Additionally, we remind residents to be cautious when hiring private waste contractors. Your waste could be fly-tipped, making you liable for a fine of up to £300 or prosecution. Always ensure the contractor is licensed and request a waste transfer note to confirm proper disposal.”

In 2022 and 2023, UK authorities dealt with 1.08 million fly-tipping cases. This cost about £13 million. About 60 per cent, was from households.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency Waste Crime team added: “The Environment Agency will relentlessly work with partners to combat serious and organised waste crime and to stop the harm that the offenders cause to communities and the environment.

“If you have any information about serious waste crime please report it to Crimestoppers anonymously online or on: 0800 555 111.”

A spokesperson for GBC issued the following advice:

Report suspicious activity:

report fly-tipping online to Guildford Borough Council
report fly-tipping online to Waverley Borough Council
phone the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60 (confidential)
call the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111 (anonymous)

Prevent fly-tipping of your waste:

use only licensed waste carriers
check waste carriers, brokers, and dealers licenses on the government website
write down the carrier’s details and take photos of the vehicle’s license plate of the carrier you use to get rid of your waste

Always remember you are responsible for your waste. If you don’t make sure it is disposed of correctly, you could be fined or even face up to five years in prison.
Always dispose of your waste responsibly