Hard-hitting campaign continues to target litter louts
Fly-tippers and litter louts are being targeted in a hard-hitting campaign, which coincides with Keep Britain Tidy’s Great British Spring Clean.
September 2020 saw the launch of the Dudley Council version of the ‘Don’t be a tosser’ campaign, originally the concept of York Council in response to the increase in litter and fly tipping during the pandemic.
The language of the poster makes it more noticeable, hard hitting, with a hint of humour to make them more eye catching.
Figures released in 2020 revealed there had been nearly 7,000 recorded incidents of fly-tipping in the borough between 2011/12 and 2018/19, costing the council £371,382 in clean-up costs.
The borough’s beauty spots, and green spaces have been particularly targeted by thoughtless people dumping their waste in areas.
Anyone who wants to support the campaign and the Great British Spring Clean can organise a litter pick in their local area and will be able to borrow equipment from the council.
Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for public realm, said:
This campaign ties in perfectly with the Dudley Deal, which is an informal agreement between Dudley Council and anyone who lives, works or runs a business in the borough. We are committed to provide street cleaning services and bin collections, but we are asking everyone else to play their part by disposing of waste responsibly.
Fly tipping and littering are not acceptable, it is antisocial and spoils the environment for those who genuinely want to enjoy our green spaces. We fully support the Great British Spring Clean campaign, run by Keep Britain Tidy, from Friday 28 May and ask everyone to play their part.
Dudley council investigates all reported cases and those found to be responsible for fly-tipping could be liable for fines of up to £50,000 through the courts. Fixed penalty notices of £75 are handed to those who are caught dropping litter.
People can report fly-tipping by using the Dudley Council app, calling 0300 555 2345, emailing dudleycouncilplus@dudley.gov.uk or online at www.dudley.gov.uk.
People can also report via Twitter at @dudleyplus.
More information about the Great British Spring Clean campaign and to take part can be found at www.keepbritaintidy.org