RESIDENTS and businesses have been asked to take care when undertaking New Year clean-ups.
Wokingham Borough Council is reminding people that they are responsible if they, or a hired unlicensed contractor, disposes of their waste in an unlawful manner, and could receive a fine.
The council has cited incidents of fly-tipping across the borough which it has had to clear up at the taxpayer’s expense.
Cllr Ian Shenton, executive member for environment, sport and leisure, said: “These selfish acts cost us considerably at a time when our operating costs are rising and we’re working hard to protect vital frontline services.
“They also cause great inconvenience, just as they do for landowners who find someone has dumped their waste and left them to clear it up.
“Anyone considering leaving goods outside a charity shop should think again as, while you may have good intentions, it’s still fly-tipping. Please wait until someone in the shop can have a look, rather than dumping items they may not want and will have to pay to dispose of.”
The Council insisted that culprits would be traced and, where possible, action taken. Its anti-social behaviour enforcement team regularly attends fly-tips to collect evidence and CCTV cameras have been installed at known hot spots.
Fly-tippers can be fined thousands of pounds in court and so can customers if they hire a trader who doesn’t have a valid Waste Carrier’s Licence, which can be checked on the Environment Agency or Right Waste Right Place website.
The council could instead issue a fixed penalty notice of £300 or £400. In some instances, prosecution can lead to up to 12 months’ imprisonment if the case is heard in a magistrates’ court or up to five years if it goes to Crown court.
Residents can take their waste and recycling to the re3 recycling centres in Longshot Lane, Bracknell and Smallmead, Reading or use the council’s large unwanted items service, which costs £56 to dispose of up to five large items.
Residents can report instances of fly-tipping on the council’s website: www.wokingham.gov.uk
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