A recent inspection of fly-tipped material reported to Sefton Council revealed that the rubbish someone had dumped contained asbestos.

Asbestos

When the Council’s street cleansing followed on the reported fly-tipping they discovered a washing machine and an office chair. But they also found potentially hazardous asbestos materials among the items, which had been dumped in the street.

As a result, the Council had to requested it’s specialist contractor to remove the items before completing a clean of the area.

Council investigators are now studying evidence gathered at the scene from with the fly-tipper facing a possible £1,000 fixed penalty charge, or prosecution in court.

Disgraceful

Cllr Peter Harvey, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Cleansing and Street Scene who has led the authority’s initiative to combat fly-tipping said: “When we visited the location of this disgraceful incident of fly-tipping we found asbestos material among the items dumped so requested our specialist contractor to remove it.

“Our street cleansing teams will then remove anything left over and carry out a litter pick and cleanse the surrounding area.

“This incident is especially worrying in that not only has the culprit left unsightly rubbish they think someone else should clear up. They have also left items containing asbestos which could be a health hazard.

“Once again, we see there is a small minority of individuals in Sefton who have complete disregard for their fellow residents, neighbours and communities.”

Higher Fixed Penalty Notice fees approved

Cllr Harvey continued: “Just last week, we approved the introduction of higher Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) fees for fly-tipping and other environmental offences that blight our communities and cost taxpayers thousands of pounds each year.  

“And we are also starting to use hidden cameras to monitor dumping hot spots.

“In future, those found to be responsible for fly-tipping face a maximum fine of £1,000, up significantly from £400.

“We know that most people in Sefton deal with their rubbish responsibly, but we will not hesitate to pursue those who refuse to show any consideration for our Borough, our neighbours, our environment and our safety.”

You can use this link to report fly-tipping in Sefton and find out more.