Concerns Raised Over Fly-Tipping Following New Recycling Centre Rules

A local litter collection organization has expressed concerns that illegal waste dumping will persist following the implementation of new regulations by Peterborough City Council at its recycling facility. The council has adopted new government legislation at its Fengate site, which eliminates fees for residents disposing of small-scale DIY waste. Nevertheless, restrictions have been introduced, limiting each visit to the site to two 50-litre bags of waste or two large items, with a maximum of four visits permitted within a four-week period. Harry Machin, the founder of Peterborough Litter Wombles, stated that it should be “easier” for individuals to recycle. The council, conversely, indicated it did not envisage a rise in fly-tipping, asserting that it was “up to residents to dispose of their waste correctly and legally”. Mr. Machin established the voluntary group in 2021. To date this year, the organization has gathered over 4,000 bags of litter along with an equivalent volume of bulkier waste. “As volunteer litter pickers, we regularly find these and other excluded items dumped in undergrowth all over Peterborough,” Mr Machin stated. He continued, “The harder they make it, more fly-tipping there’s going to be.” Mr. Machin added, “There is not enough deterrents. They can dump it and there are no consequences for them.” He further suggested, “They should make it easier for people to dispose waste and encourage them to take it to the centre, rather than making it difficult.” A spokesperson for Peterborough City Council commented: “We do not envisage an increase in fly-tipping.” The spokesperson further explained, “We know that investigative findings point towards smaller traders advertising clearances cheaper than regulated business, resulting in waste being given to non-registered waste carriers who might dispose of it illegally.” They concluded by stating, “It is up to residents to dispose of their waste correctly and legally.” Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.