Two £500 fines issued after 'lengthy' investigations into fly-tipping in Bridgnorth and Whitchurch

Shropshire Council said two fixed penalty notices (FPNs) have been issued after two "lengthy" investigations by council enforcement officers working with West Mercia Police to trace the culprits.

Officers were able to track down the offenders, one of whom had left the county.

Two members of the public who witnessed the incidents came forward and provided information and official statements which enabled officers to investigate and undertake enforcement action.

Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental maintenance, Dan Morris said: "We are working hard to tackle fly-tipping across the county. To eliminate this blight from our landscape, we all need to play our part in keeping Shropshire clean to enable everyone to love where they live.

"We continue to be very grateful for any assistance the public can support us with. By working together, we can protect our communities and keep our environment safe and clean for everyone. If you witness an act of environmental crime, coming forward and providing information is very beneficial in bringing the culprits to justice."

The council has reminded residents that it is against the law to fly tip any materials which includes leaving rubbish and old furniture in the street or next to public litter bins.

Offences carry a maximum penalty of £50,000 - if the matter is taken to court.

PC Phil Nock from West Mercia Police, added: "For over six months West Mercia has been supporting Shropshire Council to promote best practices in order to tackle the crime of fly-tipping in the county, which includes regular meetings with council officers.

"As a result of this joint initiative, Shropshire Council is now issuing fixed penalty notices and looking to prosecute offenders of this type of crime."

Anyone who witnesses a fly-tipping incident is being asked to try and take as much information as possible such as vehicle registration and description of the vehicle(s), the time and date, location of the incident, description of the waste and of the people dumping it. 

Shropshire Council added: "If it safe to do so photos can be taken of what you have witnessed."