Illegal dumping of waste in Staffordshire is being investigated by local authorities. A large heap of rubbish was discovered on Watery Lane in Lichfield in the early hours of Monday morning. The flytipping led to road closures causing severe disruption for businesses and residents in the area. Environmental protection manager Jack Twomey has said that evidence was found when officers searched the waste while it was being cleared.
Under section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, people convicted of flytipping face an unlimited fine and, in severe cases, a jail sentence. Council officials from Lichfield have said that they wish to hold those responsible to account. Councillor Phil Whitehouse, who is responsible for waste, has stated that the flytipping appeared to be a calculated operation.
The impact of the dumped rubbish on businesses in the area has been severe. The Thyme Kitchen restaurant, and other firms, seen trade drop by 40%. This was due to the ongoing disruption and road closures caused by the building of a housing estate. The illegal dumping caused businesses to lose two days’ sales after the blockage cut off access to premises. Business owner Natalie Farkas stated it had been “unbearable,” and the most stressful trading situation she had endured in 30 years of business.
Redrow Midlands, the housing developer, has made efforts to assist the council in clearing the waste and has opened up an access road. The lane becoming closed as a result of the construction is due to reopen in April. Council officials have been accompanied by contractors since 7 am to help clear the dumped waste
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