FLY-TIPPERS in Northwich and Winsford could soon be caught on camera thanks to new mobile CCTV.

Cheshire West and Chester Council will install the cameras to record footage that could be used in prosecutions.

And it is hoped that the presence of cameras will act as a strong deterrent to would-be fly-tippers.

Cllr Karen Shore, CWAC’s deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport, said: “The cameras will be positioned in known hotspots and highly visible signage will let residents know CCTV is in operation.

Northwich Guardian:

“I hope these cameras will both deter and help us catch those individuals with such a callous disregard for the cleanliness and wellbeing of our communities.

“We will be moving the cameras around the borough to a number of hotspot locations that have been identified through reporting data and other intelligence.”

CWAC spent more than £200,000 clearing up after incidents of fly-tipping in 2019, while the cost of the new CCTV cameras is just £17,000 in comparison.

Two hotspots that have been targeted in recent weeks are the Bradbury Road and Wharton Gardens estates in Winsford.

Police and CWAC officers have been on patrol in the area discussing fly-tipping with residents and visiting suspected offenders.

“Residents have commented that the estate is looking cleaner,” added Cllr Nathan Pardoe, Labour CWAC member for Wharton.

Northwich Guardian:

“Patrols and enforcement aren’t one off activities and they will continue. They are supported by CCTV which will be installed in the near future, and anyone caught fly tipping will be prosecuted.

“The impact of fly-tipping is unacceptable and entirely avoidable. It is expensive to deal with and takes money away from positive things.”

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Anyone caught fly-tipping could be handed a fixed penalty notice of up to £400, while serious offences could result in a £50,000 fine or 12 months’ imprisonment.