CONCERNS have been raised about an increase in fly-tipping in Colne.

Residents in the Waterside area of the town say that it has become a ‘hot spot’ for people dumping rubbish.

An investigation into the fly-tipping has now been launched by Pendle Council after quantities of waste were reported in Shaw Street, Earl Street and Bridge Street.

A resident from Shaw Street, who did not want to be named, said: “The problem with fly-tipping has been happening in the Waterside area since mid-October.

“Rubbish including tyres and wooden cabinets and household waste have been dumped then cleared away by the council a few days later. Because the offenders have got away with it, they are coming back again and again and now the area has become a hot spot for fly-tipping.”

Councillor John David, portfolio holder for Environmental Services said: “We have an Environmental Crime Team who as a part of their duties make regular patrols of the borough dealing with fly tipping, littering and dog fouling.

Just this week officers have interviewed someone in connection with fly tipping in Colne.

They are continuing their enquiries in the hope of finding who is responsible.

“The team do what they can to deter fly tippers from dumping their rubbish in Pendle. As our past record shows, we are willing to give free advice to residents and businesses on how to dispose of their waste responsibly.

“When fly tips are found, officers do search for evidence within the rubbish in the hope of finding where it might have come from. Occasionally something is found and they follow up leads to try and catch the perpetrators “Quite simply, there’s no reason for fly tipping in Pendle.

“We make regular domestic collections of rubbish and recycling, and we offer a competitive trade waste collection service. We also collect bulky household items, such as large pieces of furniture, cookers or fridge/ freezers, for free.

“And the penalties for fly tipping are certainly not to be sniffed at.

“Anyone found guilty of fly tipping faces a fine of up to £50,000 or even a sentence of up to five years in prison.”