Rogue traders adding to fly tipping problem in Sheffield

Data from Sheffield Council showed that January was the worst month for fly tipping in 2020 with a total of 1,247 reports.

Green Party candidate Bernard Little said: “Fly-tipping really drags down our area and it is really disappointing to see people dumping their rubbish in green spaces rather than taking it to the tip.

“Most people are fed up with the small minority of people who think that any bit of green space is their own private dumping ground and we really need help from Sheffield Council to help us get things tidier.”

Fellow Green Party candidate Christine Gilligan Kubo added: “Part of the problem with fly tipping across Sheffield is being driven by rogue traders offering to clear rubbish.

“I am asking residents to be extra careful when paying people to remove their rubbish. If you use a trader who does not dispose of the rubbish legally you could end up being fined.

“Ultimately clearing up fly tipping incurs a cost to council tax payers in Sheffield so we want to see the council doing much more to raise awareness of these sorts of scams, promote its own bulky waste collection service and save money in the long run.”

Coun Mark Jones, Cabinet member for environment, said Christmas had been difficult this year but there were plenty of ways to dispose of rubbish.

“I’d like to thank the many many people who have shown great patience and have done there very best to deal with their household waste,” he said.

“Our partners in Amey and Veolia have, and continue to work hard in these challenging times.

“The council offers a cheap and reliable large item collection service, we have kept our recycling centres open and we will keep delivering all our services.

“Though a very few people act selfishly by flytipping, the vast majority of people are considerate and responsible in disposing of their waste.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.