Success in Tackling Fly-Tipping in Middlesbrough: The Role of CCTV and Community Engagement

Fly-tipping - the illegal dumping of waste - is a persistent problem that plagues numerous communities across the UK, and Kensington Road in Middlesbrough was no exception. The alleyway behind this road had become a hotbed for fly-tipping, with discarded fridges, washing machines, old furniture, and household waste marring the landscape. However, a significant clean-up operation and the implementation of video surveillance have proven successful in curbing this issue, bringing about a remarkable improvement in the local environment.

Crackdown on Fly-Tipping

In April, the Middlesbrough council, led by the Environmental Wardens and the fly-tipping Flying Squad, launched a major clean-up operation. This involved the removal of a staggering 2,180kg of waste from the alleyway, a task that required considerable effort and resources. Furthermore, in an attempt to deter fly-tipping, the council issued a fine to a resident for fly-tipping offences, while several others received fixed penalty notices. This crackdown served as an initial step in the council's strategy to combat fly-tipping in the area.

Installation of CCTV Cameras

In October, the council took a further step by installing CCTV cameras in the alleyway. This was done with the expectation that the presence of surveillance would serve as a deterrent to potential offenders. The results have been nothing short of impressive. The council has reported a significant reduction in the number of fly-tipping reports, from approximately five a month to less than two. Notably, there were no reports of fly-tipping in November or February, demonstrating the effectiveness of the CCTV initiative.

Community Engagement and Responsibility

The council's efforts to clean up Kensington Road have not been in isolation. Emphasis has been placed on the importance of local residents taking pride in their area and contributing to its upkeep. Residents have been urged to report any issues of fly-tipping to the council, and their involvement has been crucial in maintaining the cleanliness of the area post-clean-up. Additionally, the council offers a bulky waste collection service, which residents can request, providing a legal and environmentally friendly way of disposing of large items.

Looking Ahead

The success story of Kensington Road serves as a testament to the effectiveness of combining surveillance, law enforcement, and community engagement in tackling environmental issues such as fly-tipping. It is a model that could potentially be replicated in other fly-tipping hotspots across the country. With the continued effort from the council and active participation from the residents, Kensington Road can maintain its transformed state, free of illegally dumped waste.