A £600 Fixed Penalty Notice has been issued by the Council after a significant fly-tipping incident was uncovered in the woodlands near Sandy Lane, New Marske.
The waste had been reported by Councillor Chris Jones, Ward Member for West Dyke Ward. Following the report, the Enforcement team checked the area on Sunday, 2 February 2025, and the officers discovered around 20 bags of mixed household waste scattered within the wooded area, just past the entrance to Errington Woods.
Investigations at the scene led officers to uncover evidence linking the waste to a property in Redcar. The same day, officers visited the address and spoke to the individual named on the evidence. While the person claimed they had no knowledge of how the waste had ended up in the woodland, they were reminded of their legal duty to ensure their waste is disposed of responsibly. As a result, they were issued with a £600 Fixed Penalty Notice for a Duty of Care offence.
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood, Cllr Adam Brook, said: "Dumping waste in our countryside is completely unacceptable. Not only does it spoil our local area, but it is also harmful for the environment and wildlife. Everyone has a legal and moral duty to dispose of their waste correctly, and those who fail to do so will face the consequences. Our enforcement teams will continue to take firm action against anyone who disregards their responsibility."
Cllr Chris Jones added: "I strongly encourage residents to report fly-tipping to the Council. By working together, we can help protect our local environment and keep Redcar and Cleveland clean for everyone."
Residents should be aware that the penalty for littering is now £400, while the one from fly-tipping is now £1000. An additional offence was also introduced in April 2024, called Duty of Care, meaning that householders using third-party services to dispose of their waste, are still responsible for it. This offence can be fined with £600.
The Council continues to take a firm stance against environmental offences to keep Redcar and Cleveland clean and safe for all.