Council warns of fly tipping at Kenwith Valley

Torridge District Council is taking action to address fly tipping after significant amounts of waste were found at Kenwith Valley Local Nature Reserve in Bideford. 

The waste, which includes domestic items, building materials, white goods, and green waste, was uncovered during works to investigate flood defence structures.

Kenwith Valley is considered an important wildlife site by the council, with a range of habitats that are home to various birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects. 

The area is also a popular spot for local visitors who enjoy the opportunity to connect with nature.

The council has raised concerns about the impact of fly tipping on the environment, and is asking the public to stay vigilant and report any fly tipping incidents they witness.

Fly tipping is a criminal offence, punishable by a fine of up to £50,000 or 12 months imprisonment. 

The council states that while sometimes information from the waste itself can help identify the perpetrator, reports from members of the public are extremely valuable.

Anyone who witnesses an instance of fly tipping is encouraged to provide the following information:

• Date and time of the incident
• Exact location (mobile apps may assist with this)
• Details of the items deposited and the quantity
• Details of the person(s) responsible for depositing the waste
• Vehicle information, including make, model, colour, registration, and any distinguishing features (such as a business name)
• Reports can be made by calling the council at 01237 428700 or by emailing environmental.protection@torridge.gov.uk. All reports are handled with confidentiality.

Councillor Philip Hackett, Lead Member for Public Health & Community Safety, said:

"Fly tipping is more than an unsightly nuisance and a bit of dumped waste for the council to clear. It is a planned waste crime which is done for the sake of convenience, but at a considerable cost to the local community. Each case can involve an Environmental Health Officer, waste operatives, vehicles, and a customer services officer - so the costs can be considerable. We would strongly urge residents to report any cases and warn anyone planning to dump their rubbish illegally that these cases will be thoroughly investigated and pursued."

The council continues to focus on combating fly tipping and protecting local environments from illegal waste disposal.