Issue - meetings

Consideration was given to report of the Team Manager Frontline Enforcement Service.

The Team Manager Frontline Enforcement Service presented the report which provided an update on the Authority’s enforcement activities in relation to fly tipping and other waste regulation offences and the level of fly tipping activity within Blaenau Gwent for the year 2021/22.

The Officer went through the report and highlighted points contained therein.

A Member asked whether the booking system in place for the HWRC’s was having a detrimental impact on fly tipping.

In response the Service Manager Neighbourhood Services explained that the booking system, introduced in response to the Covid pandemic, was being reviewed and options were being explored.  However, he said the report demonstrated that fly tipping had reduced in the last 12 months. 

A Member asked whether CCTV could be deployed in problem areas.

The Team Manager Frontline Enforcement Service confirmed that a number of locations were being considered and prioritised, but he would be happy for Members’ input.

Another Member expressed concern regarding the low level of fixed penalty notices issued for fly tipping.

The Officer explained that 424 complaints of fly tipping were investigated by Enforcement Wardens, however, the majority of the materials dumped do not contain any evidence for the Enforcement Wardens to pursue.  However, moving forward FPN’s will be issued on a lower level of evidence so it was anticipated that the figures would increase significantly in the next financial year.

In response to a question raised by a Member, the Officer confirmed that the Council worked closely with the Duke of Beaufort Estate regarding fly tipping, and also with other Partners and private landowners to get waste removed as soon as possible. 

A discussion ensued when Officer clarified points raised by Members. 

A Member sought an update on rear lane collections.

The Service Manager Neighbourhood Services confirmed that some rear lane collections have been reinstated but there was still work to be done.

The Committee AGREED to recommend that the report be accepted and supported the continuing waste regulation work and development of the Frontline Enforcement Service. (Option 1)