MARSH House councillor John Roberts has persuaded Blackburn with Darwen borough colleagues to back a call for a £1,000 fixed penalty for fly-tippers.

The new lead member for the environment believes the tough new penalty is the only way to deter those who dump rubbish.

The borough council has welcomed the call by ‘Keep Britain Tidy’ for ministers to introduce the £1,000 fixed fine for fly-tipping as part of a new litter strategy.

Now he wants the Local Government Association, which represents all England’s councils, and new Blackburn MP Kate Hollern to back the proposal.

Cllr Roberts is concerned that the fines and costs imposed often fail to cover the legal and clear-up costs of the council.

Fly-tipping is a major problem in Darwen with Whitehall Liberal Democrat councillor Paul Browne calling for tougher penalties on those responsible.

Cllr Roberts said: “Fly-tipping is one of the biggest complaints I and my council colleagues receive.

“At present magistrates fail to fully compensate the council for the work involved in clearing up the mess fly tippers leave.”