Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard told viewers of news channel GB News that fines should be higher for fly-tippers – and that it should be easier to prosecute those who illegally dump rubbish, especially on private land.
Speaking as the Local Government Association's environment spokesman, Coun Renard told host Alastair Stewart: “There should be stronger deterrents. The average fine was £438 for the last year we have figures for and that clearly not a deterrent for unlicensed operators. We have been lobbying government for stiffer penalties.”
🗣 @CllrDavidRenard on 📺 @GBNews with our call for greater fines and stronger deterrents to help prevent fly-tipping #CouncilsCan #BuildBackLocal pic.twitter.com/BQwrlSZxPX
— LGANews (@LGANews) October 10, 2021
Coun Renard said that councils can prosecute those who tip on public land, but if rubbish is dumped on private land it’s up to the landowner to do so.
He added: “The process is costly and laborious with a high burden of proof. We think it should be easier with heavier fines levied as a deterrent.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel