Council turns to social media to prosecute flytipper

A West Midlands local authority implemented a successful social media campaign when it looked to try and track down a rogue flytipper.

Telford & Wrekin Council’s enforcement officers turned to the digital platforms after it was tipped off about rubbish being dumped illegally.

They urged people with information about the fly tip in Sutton Hill to contact them via the platforms after the incident was reported to the council in January.

Following the social media appeal for information, the culprit was traced and issued with a £400 fixed penalty notice, which was subsequently paid.

They were identified because of the distinctive wallpaper and carpet which had been dumped.

The successful campaign brings the number of fixed penalty notices issued for fly tipping to 15 since last summer when the council’s enforcement officers were given additional powers to investigate environmental crime and issue fines.

Cllr Richard Overton, Telford & Wrekin’s cabinet member for enforcement, said: “Thank you to the members of the public for their reports and information which helps us track down those who blight our borough in this way.

“Every report of a fly tip and every piece of information is investigated and we will do all we can to catch those responsible and penalise them. We are no longer a soft touch when it comes to environmental crime. We will use the powers we now have.”