THURROCK Council says it is continuing to clamp down on illegal fly-tippers.

It comes as part of the authority’s “clean it, cut it, fill it” initiative and ties in with the Love Thurrock campaign recently launched by the council and the Gazette.

In July 2016, the council introduced a new fixed penalty notice for small-scale fly-tipping.

Davy Down car park in South Ockendon was subjected to a recent fly-tip. Council officers investigated the scene and found paperwork that led officers to the source of the illegally-dumped waste.

Following a full investigation, officers were able to make a case against the offender, meaning a £400 fine could be issued.

Rob Gledhill, Tory leader of Thurrock Council, said: “This is a great result for the residents of Thurrock. Our officers visit all fly-tips on public land and where sufficient evidence is found it is investigated fully and those responsible are punished. The clean it, cut it, fill it initiative is once again delivering for residents.”

For 2015/16 the cost to clear fly-tips in the borough was approximately £125,000. Figures for 2016/17 aren’t yet available, but the council estimate the costs for this year have increased.

For more information, visit thurrock.gov.uk/lovethurrock