Council quizzed over Fly-tipping fines
December 22, 2011 5:46 PM
By Joe Leach
By Joe Leach
Sedgemoor Liberal Democrats have questioned the Portfolio holder for the Environment, Councillor Richard Burden, over news that 50 fines of £50 each had been issued for illegal fly-tipping, at a time when the numbers of incidents have doubled since last year. Sedgemoor LibDem Leader and Councillor for Highbridge & Burnham Marine ward, Joe Leach, said; "I welcome the news that fines have been issued over this awful activity - however I have some concerns as to whether these fines go far enough". He asked, "Can the portfolio holder confirm whether the fines cover the individual cost of the fly-tipping incident, because it isn't simply a fine to punish people for their offence, but to ensure that costs of their actions are met"
He finished, "It is unacceptable that taxpayers pay for other people's actions".
The Portfolio holder was unaware of the figures, but pledged 'he would respond as soon as he can'.
It follows the County Council's decision earlier this year to reduce the hours at Recycling Centres and impose new charges for certain types of waste, including at Highbridge centre. Many people have felt aggrived to paying the additional cost and have sought to illegally dump their waste.
Councillor Leach commented, "I totally understand people's frustrations at having to pay extra costs to recycle, but the answer is not to illegally dispose of it, as this will cost more in the long run. Please instead write to your county councillor, expressing your anger."
ENDS
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