Fly tipping and pollution
Eyes on the Streets: Walsall Council unveils new EnviroCrime vehicle
Published on
In a bold move to combat the persistent issue of fly-tipping in the borough, Walsall Council is taking to the streets with a new, eye-catching vehicle designed to deter environmental crimes.
Wrapped in anti-fly-tipping design with prominent eyes, the vehicle is set to be a key part of the council's ongoing Environmental Crime Scene project, also known as the ‘EnviroCrime’ initiative.
The initiative takes a proactive approach, investigating fly-tipping incidents on a ward-by-ward basis, identifying perpetrators, and educating residents to prevent further instances.
The council's fly-tipping prevention officers are set to take the streets in this new vehicle, with Streetly, Pheasey, and Paddock being the next areas of focus.
“ This vehicle is not just a means of transportation, it's a statement, designed to be noticed and to deter.
As it patrols our wards, it will be sending a clear message that Walsall is watching and that fly-tipping will not be tolerated in our borough.
I urge all of our community members to join us in this fight against environmental crimes by being mindful of proper waste disposal methods and helping us keep Walsall tidy. “
A particular environmental challenge which the council is proactively addressing is the escalating issue of 'side-waste’—the act of dumping bagged waste on streets and next to public litter bins. The new vehicle is a response to the increase in this type of fly-tipping, serving as a deterrent to potential offenders.
A series of warning letters have already been issued to those misusing public bins for excess waste disposal, including both commercial premises and households. The council's message remains firm: leaving bags by bins or on public footpaths is fly-tipping, a serious offense that will be met with fixed penalty notices or court fines.
Residents can dispose of their waste responsibly by booking bulky waste collections or visiting one of the boroughs two household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) open seven days a week.
The council also encourage residents to be vigilant and play their part in the fight against fly-tipping by reporting any incidents through its dedicated webpage: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/apply/myaccount-online-services/report-fly-tip.
L-R: Councillor Kerry Murphy, Portfolio Holder for Street Pride, Simon Guest, Contract Manager, Joe Dines, Education & Enforcement Officer, Sebastian Massey-Corden, Environmental Apprentice, Sarah Heath, Community Protection Officer.
Councillor Kerry Murphy, Portfolio Holder for Street Pride
The new ‘EnviroCrime’ car, wrapped in anti-fly-tipping decals
ENDS
Notes to editor:
• Fly-tipping is a serious criminal offence which carries a fine of up to £20,000 (unlimited if indicted to the Crown Court). Offenders can even be sent to prison.
• There are two household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) in the borough of Walsall which are free to use: Fryers Road, Bloxwich and Merchants Way, Aldridge.
• The council offers a bulky items collection service for residents who may struggle to take larger items to a Household Waste Recycling Centre. This can be booked through the Council website.
• Residents who are struggling to manage their household waste, for example because of a growing family or an ongoing medical condition, can apply for a larger bin through the council’s website.
