Multi-agency operation to tackle waste crime in Cheshire West and Chester continues this spring
Cheshire West and Chester Council joined forces with Cheshire Constabulary and the Environment Agency to carry out intensive enforcement throughout the borough to tackle fly-tipping and waste transfer offences as part of the now established Operation Flycatcher.
Council enforcement officers inspected reported fly-tips across the borough during the operation, collecting evidence of potential offenders. Officers also spoke to residents and posted letters to homes in the local area where fly-tips were observed, asking anyone with information that might help identify those responsible for fly- tipping to come forward.
As a direct result of this enforcement activity, a defendant who failed to appear in court in relation to a fly‑tipping investigation earlier in the week was successfully arrested and brought before magistrates.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhood Pride, Councillor Stuart Bingham said:
Our enforcement officers are working tirelessly to track down those responsible for this grotesque crime, which blights our communities and our countryside. Fly tipping has a real impact on residents and taxpayers, and we will not tolerate it. We urge anyone with information about fly tipping in their area to report it so that we can take action.
Alongside investigations at fly‑tipping sites, officers carried out targeted stop‑checks on commercial vehicles. These checks ensured that anyone transporting waste held the correct licences and documentation, while Police vehicle inspectors also assessed whether vehicles were roadworthy.
Cllr Bingham added:
We will continue to take firm action against fly tipping and waste crime, working closely with our partner agencies and using our full regulatory powers to deal robustly with offenders. Cheshire West and Chester is not a place where those who deliberately flout waste regulations will be welcomed. Operation Flycatcher is one of a number of innovative approaches we are taking to deal with these crimes.