Spike in fly-tipping condemned
Argyll and Bute Council has added its voice to the list of those condemning the recent spike in fly-tipping in rural Scotland.
NFU Scotland, Scottish Land and Estates, Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime, Keep Scotland Beautiful and Zero Waste Scotland released a joint statement in which they pleaded with members of the public to stop dumping DIY remnants, unwanted furniture and garden waste in farmers’ fields, laybys and lanes.
The statement read: ‘At a time when farmers are working around the clock to provide food for the nation and trying to keep their businesses running, it is heart-breaking to see their land being used as a tip.
‘Local authorities have been forced to temporarily reduce or suspend some services due to the coronavirus pandemic. They are prioritising essential services to protect public health, therefore dealing with fly-tipping at this time puts added pressure on this limited resource.
‘We are pleading with people to keep items at home until recycling centres re-open. Keeping items for a few weeks is better than committing a criminal act that could have longer term consequences, including a fine of up to £40,000.
‘Fly-tipping is illegal, ugly and dangerous. It can be harmful to lambs, calves and other animals. But for farmers and other landowners, it is also costly to clean up.’
An Argyll and Bute Council spokesperson said: ‘We are working hard to deliver as many of our normal services as possible at this difficult time. However, there is a minority putting our workers and their communities at risk through irresponsible behaviour. Stag car park, Lochgilphead, was the scene of fly-tipping.’
Councillor Robin Currie, policy lead for housing, roads and infrastructure services, said: ‘At this time, our sincere thanks go to everyone for staying at home, respecting social distancing and caring for the community. Our staff will have to wear full personal protective equipment to protect themselves from possible infection and cuts as they remove this rubbish from Stag car park – wasting time and resources we don’t have at the moment. If employees become injured or ill that threatens our ability to deliver the services communities need. Fly-tipping anywhere is unacceptable and an offence. Don’t put yourself at risk of prosecution.’
The statement from the farming leaders continued: ‘The public can help by acting as the eyes and ears of their community and we urge anyone who notices fly-tipping to report it.
‘This can be done through the Dumb Dumpers website or by reporting directly to the relevant local authority.
‘As rural and environmental organisations, we are working together to stop fly-tipping but we can only do it with the public’s support.’