People in North Tyneside who use back lanes as a dumping ground are being warned to clean up their act or face a fine.
Two residents in Wallsend have received on the spot fines for dumping mattresses, broken furniture, a fridge and rubbish in the back lanes behind their homes.
Enforcement officers from North Tyneside Council’s new community and public protection team have been carrying out foot patrols in different areas of the borough.
And during the latest inspection in Wallsend town centre, the two residents were handed £50 fixed penalty notices, while others received warnings.
A business owner was also given a warning for not disposing of the premise’s waste properly, which could lead to a community protection notice and a fine of up to £20,000 if they don’t change their ways.
The action is part of a rolling programme of activity which will see the team visiting different areas of the borough, where they will also take a tough stance against crime and anti-social behaviour as well as environmental offences.
Speaking about the action, manager of the team, Colin Boxshall said: “North Tyneside is a great place to live, work and visit and we will not allow a minority to spoil it.
“As well as making the area look untidy, materials left in a back lane can be a safety hazard.
“We will continue to take a strict approach to fly-tipping, visiting homes and businesses, until we put a stop to those inconsiderate people dumping rubbish.”
The news comes as a woman from North Shields was prosecuted earlier this month for leaving rubbish in the back lane behind her home.
After failing to pay a fixed penalty notice of £50, the council took the resident to court where she was issued with a fine of £659.
The community and public protection team will continue inspecting back lanes across the borough.
Officers will make use of powers under the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act. Fines and community protection warnings and notices will be issued where appropriate.
Fly-tipping can be reported on the council’s website, www.northtyneside.gov.uk. Residents can also request a bulky waste collection on the website or by calling 0345 2000 103.
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