Solihull Council is preparing to implement a robust crackdown on fly-tipping after data revealed over 3,000 incidents in the 2024-2025 period. Although this marks a decrease of 752 cases from the previous year, the volume remains a significant concern for the community.
During this time frame, the council investigated 140 fly-tipping cases, resulting in three prosecutions and seven fixed penalty notices. Notably, three major dumping incidents involving industrial waste at a layby on Fen End Road led to a successful court prosecution.
Louise Baggott, Head of Regulatory Services, presented these findings to the Stronger Communities and Neighbourhood Services Scrutiny Board. She acknowledged the challenge faced with limited resources, as investigations rely on just one dedicated officer.
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Acknowledging the need for improvement, Baggott emphasized the development of an illegal waste strategy to ensure a consistent and more effective approach. This plan may include enhanced reporting and recording procedures, as well as the deployment of overt and covert cameras aimed at deterring offenders.
Councillor Bob Grinsell highlighted public frustration with fly-tipping and called for better communication, urging that residents and local ward councillors receive feedback when reports are made and evidence is clear.
The issue appears to be exacerbated by external factors such as the current bin strike in Birmingham. Councillor Laura McCarthy noted a spike in fly-tipping linked to the neighboring city, which the council’s data partially confirms. Many of the illegally dumped wastes trace back to addresses outside Solihull, complicating enforcement efforts.
Resource constraints remain a key hurdle. Councillor Alan Feeney questioned the impact of adding more officers, pointing out that without addressing underlying problems, additional staff might not yield significant improvements. Baggott agreed, also noting the difficulty in obtaining witness cooperation due to fear of repercussions.
The council actively encourages residents to assist by sharing doorbell camera or smartphone footage to support investigations. Officers continue to engage with communities to follow up on such evidence where possible.
Despite the challenges, councillors expressed their support for developing and adopting a comprehensive illegal waste management strategy, aiming to better combat fly-tipping and protect Solihull’s environment.