Councillor joins police to tackle fly tipping and speeding

Police were called to investigate reports that green bin waste had been dumped on private land behind Larch Close in Weaverham.

The reports were made by Cheshire West and Chester councillor Lynn Stocks, who joined officers for a patrol of her ward, Weaver and Cuddington, on Wednesday (September 13).

She claims fly tipping has become a rising concern as a result of changes introduced by the council.

“I am concerned about the issue with fly tipping which appears to have increased since the reduction in opening hours at the Northwich Household Waste Recycling Centre and the introduction of the ‘green bin tax’ - both of these decisions have created an increase in fly tipping in the area,” said councillor Stocks.

She added: “Fly tipping is an issue from time to time in the ward and this afternoon myself and the PCSO were looking at a specific location where fly tipping had been reported.

“As a result of the visit to the site today, the fly tipping was reported to Cheshire West via the ‘Report It’ app along with photographic evidence.

The opening hourse of the recycling centre changed in 2020.

Then, in February 2022, Cheshire West and Chester Council introduced a £40-a-year green bin recycling service, something which had previously been free.

However, a spokesperson for the council said there is no evidence that these decisions have created any increase in fly tipping.

“Fly tipping figures are monitored on an ongoing basis,” the spokesperson explained.

“Our latest figures indicate that we have not experienced an increase in incidents since the changes to the opening hours of the Northwich Household Waste Recycling Centre or introduction of the garden waste charge.

“The Council encourage residents to report incidences where they have seen anyone fly tipping.”

Councillor Stocks and police also conducted a speed watch (Image: Weaver and Cuddington Police)

Whilst out with the Weaver and Cuddington police team, councillor Stocks carried out a community speed watch on Weaverham Road following concerns raised by a resident.

In total, 12 offences were captured along the 20mph road, the highest recorded speed being 34mph.

we caught many drivers travelling in excess of the 20mph speed limit.

Police have sent warning letters to all of the offending vehicles.

Anyone concerned about fly tipping is urged to report it to the council by calling 0300 123 7026 or emailing enquiries@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.

It can also be reported via the Report It app or online at https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/streets-and-open-spaces/fly-tipping.