Severity of fly-tipping in Northampton will be addressed, says new council after deputy major's plea

The severity of fly-tipping in Northampton will be addressed by the new council when it comes into force next month, according to a senior councillor.

Deputy mayor Rufia Ashraf has called on West Northamptonshire Council to tackle the issue after it was revealed the town has the fourth-highest fly-tipping rate in England.

West Northamptonshire Shadow Authority portfolio holder for highways and waste Phil Larratt replied: “Towns and cities across the country have issues with littering and fly-tipping, and we recognise the severity of fly-tipping in Northampton.

"Everyone has a responsibility to try and ensure their communities are tidy and well cared for.

“From day one we will work closely with service providers to ensure we at least maintain the current level of service, including taking enforcement action wherever possible.

"We will continue to look for new ways to support West Northamptonshire residents with solutions which work for everyone.

"For example we’ll do what we can to secure an improvement in the cleanliness on the major highway network, especially the A14, A43 and A45, by working collaboratively with Highways England.”

Northampton Borough Council recorded 92 incidents of rubbish being dumped per 1,000 people in the year up to March 2020.

Councillor Ashraf said it was shocking that there were just over 19,000 incidents or reported fly tipping since April last year.

The shadow portfolio holder for the environment for the Labour group at the borough council believes the upcoming local government changes provide an opportunity for long-lasting improvements.

"As we move over to West Northants unitary council, I urge the new council to find a solution," she said.

West Northamptonshire Council will take over responsibility for all council services in Northampton borough and Daventry and South Northamptonshire districts from April 1.