Resident raises concern over fly-tipping incident near Blackburn

Mike Graham, who is the Labour candidate for Lancashire County Council's Hoghton with Wheelton Division, uncovered eight fridge freezer units on the A6061 Riley Green Switch Road at Hoghton.

He has already dealt with fly-tipping incidents in the area a few times this month.

Mike said: “This is the third time this year I have had to organise for numerous fridges to be removed from the roadside, they total 20 units this year.

“It is just coming out of Blackburn into Chorley and it is happening every week and it is all household fridges and fridge freezers.

“A passing cyclist told me the culprit is a guy from Blackburn who charges for refrigeration units to be removed then he dumps them.”

Eight fridge freezers were left at the side of the road (Image: Mike Graham) While just outside Blackburn, the issue is dealt with by Chorley Council, who Mike says have been really quick at dealing with fly-tips in the past.

Read more: Great Harwood furious over "relentless" fly-tipping after another incident

Read more: Fly-tipping in Belthorn sparks outrage as councillor demands stronger protections

He added: “I am asking Chorley Council to fit concealed trail cameras in the worst hit areas to catch the culprits.

“I have raised a proposal to put in these overt cameras and they seem to be very keen on the idea, with one of the councillors getting back to me saying they are probably going to do it.”

Following a conversation with a councillor on Wednesday, January 29, they have said they are strongly considering the option of putting overt cameras in the area.

Unlike most fly-tips, this one largely included industrial waste, which creates difficulty for councils in dealing with it, as it cannot be traced by a name or item found within it.

In 2023, Chorley only reported 872 incidents of fly-tipping, a relatively small figure compared to the 4,167 recorded in neighbouring Blackburn with Darwen.

In response, Cllr Adrian Lowe, executive member of Chorley Council for customer, streetscene and environment, said: “We’ve cleared the waste, but if you have any information about this incident or see fly-tipping in the area, please report it on our website.

“We’re working hard to tackle fly-tipping and environmental crime by using technology, community involvement, and other enforcement measures.

"We’re always looking for new ways to address these issues and hold those responsible accountable.  

“Residents can dispose of waste responsibly by using our large item collection service on our website. If you hire a waste carrier, please make sure they’re registered with the Environment Agency.

"You can check their public register on the government website or call the Environment Agency at on 03708 506 506.”