BY CLLR JONATHAN HULLEY
Fly-tipping has been a problem in Runnymede Borough for years making our open green spaces look like a dumping ground for those not wanting to pay for removals or those running a back-handed business. Fly-tipping is an anti-social behaviour and if left unchallenged can cause damage to Runnymede’s green suburbs and Surrey’s beautiful countryside. It is also expensive and often time consuming to clear and uses taxpayer money that could be better spent on other services provided by Runnymede and Surrey Councils.
Did you know that if caught, a perpetrator can expect a fine, 5 years imprisonment or both. In fact in Surrey 100% of fly-tippers who go to court are convicted. Also, any vehicle suspected of being involved in fly-tipping can be seized and even destroyed or sold with heavy fines with repeated offenders facing imprisonment.
I would like to see more perpetrators caught and punished. By following this simple procedure, you can help save the countryside and put these offenders in their place. Firstly, do NOT confront any suspect you see. Instead, if the vehicle is still present try and get the vehicle make, model and if possible registration number.
Then please email
environmentalhealth@runnymede.gov.uk
with the information or call Runnymede Borough Council’s dedicated fly-tipping hotline on 01932 425656.
You need to provide details of the location of the incident (address or local landmarks) and description/photos of the rubbish. If you can, please also give details of the vehicle, including the make, model, colour, registration and any features, branding or signage on the vehicle. If you are able to get a photo without putting yourself at risk, this will help too.
I feel privileged to live in Runnymede and I cherish our many green open spaces. Like me, I am sure that you don’t want to see fly- tipping blight our natural environment and so the next time you come across fly-tipping, or even see a suspect, do contact Runnymede’s fly-tipping team and report what you see? You will be doing your bit to help tackle environmental crime and also help keep Runnymede a great place to live.