Ipswich resident ask council to take action over flytipping

Michael Coe moved to Gibbons Street in 2005, but in his time there has noticed several issues of illegal flytipping.

He said over the years he has seen rubbish, sofas, mattresses, and human excrement, left in the garden and nearby areas.

The latest flytipping incident occurred last Thursday and was reported to Ipswich Borough Council.

 Mr Coe believes that the council need to make major changes instead of handing out a fine, since he has seen issues on his street for several years. 

Last year the borough reviewed its penalties for environmental offences, including littering, fly-tipping and incorrect disposal of household waste.  

Councillor John Cook, portfolio holder for communities & sport at Ipswich Borough Council, said: “Littering and fly-tipping are not acceptable on any level, anywhere in Ipswich. 

"Where waste is being dumped onto private property by a third party and evidence has been gathered, the Council will investigate it further.

"However, where no evidence can be found, it is the landowner’s responsibility to resolve the issue and clear the waste. If they feel this is part of some wider criminal action against them, they can contact the police." 

Residents set up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme 10 years ago. (Image: Contributed)

Mr Gibbons said there has also been a time when heavy piles of rubbish were left on the street, which the members of the public could not pick up and move by hand. 

He said: "Enough is enough and it is time for a change in the law to hold councils and government accountable for flytipping on all land."

In 2014, the residents of Gibbons Street set up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, to address the issue in depth.

However, Mr Coe said that in the 10 years, the residents have seen little to no change made to improve the lives of residents on the street. 

Residents can report flytipping incidents online or by calling the Cleaner Ipswich Hotline on 01473 432000.