A councillor proposes a course for fly-tippers in Newport, similar to speed awareness, including litter-picking and recycling visits.
The council clarified Forsey spoke hypothetically. They have no plans for waste awareness courses now. She mentioned this idea during a council meeting where they discussed how to reduce fly-tipping rates.
Forsey said that speeding can lead to a speed awareness course. She thinks excess waste offenses could lead to a waste course too. Her course idea includes litter collection and a visit to the WasteSavers education room, so people could learn about recycling glass, plastic, metal, and paper.
She also suggested a visit to the incinerator, so people could see residual waste processing there. After that, a visit to WRAP could show more recycling, as sorted waste from residual bins could be recycled easily.
Newport had the most fly-tipping in Wales last year. The council increased efforts to fight fly-tipping by conducting investigations, using cameras, checking waste carrier licenses. They have also issuing fines and prosecuting severe cases. Fixed penalty notices increased 1000% compared to 2023/24 and prosecutions nearly tripled recent numbers.
Fly-tipping can bring a fine up to £50,000. It could also mean 12 months in jail if a magistrates’ court convicts someone. The Crown Court could impose unlimited fines and sentence someone to five years in jail. People can report fly-tipping to Newport Council by calling 01663 656656.