Southwark 11th Highest Fly-Tipping Authority Nationally in Latest Data

Southwark Council had the 11th highest amount of fly-tipping incidents per 1,000 people nationally, according to government data on Wednesday.

Government statistics also show that, in 2020-21, Southwark Council was 198th in the list when it came to fly-tipping enforcement actions in England.

Both figures show a worsening performance compared to the previous year, with Southwark 44th on the list for enforcement actions in 2019-20.

The Times reported that there has generally been an increase in fly-tipping nationally, with some councils responding by introducing free bulky waste disposal.

Southwark Council implemented bulky waste collection charges in 2015, which the Liberal Democrats opposed.

The Southwark Liberal Democrats forecast a jump in fly tipping as a result of the fee.

Data went on to prove that fly-tipping rose in the borough by 12% in the six months after the council brought in these charges.

In the November 2021 council assembly, the Liberal Democrats proposed expanding fly-tipping teams and reintroducing free bulky waste disposal to deal with these rubbish issues.

Southwark Labour amended the motion and took out those policies. They then voted for this amended version.

Commenting, Cllr Hamish McCallum, Leader of the Liberal Democrats said:

“Time and time again we have warned of the impact of bulky waste disposal charges. Residents are unhappy with the state of our streets and Labour is simply ignoring them. Even the Conservatives at City of Westminster Council provide concessions for bulky waste disposal. Southwark Labour must urgently get a grip and address this issue.”

For more information please email: info@southwark-libdems.org.uk