People across Dudley borough are being urged to act at the eyes and ears of their communities and catch fly-tippers.

Dudley Council has launched a major crackdown on offenders who dump waste on open ground.

The council has also vowed a “deep clean” of the borough to tackle the problem.

Fly-tipping costs around £60,000 to clean up each year.

Councillor John Martin, Cabinet Member for Highways and Environment, said:

“Fly-tippers leave the honest taxpayers out of pocket by picking up the bill to clean up the waste left behind.

“It costs thousands of pounds a year to clear up the mess, and that is totally unacceptable to our residents.

“Residents have a vital part to play in catching those responsible, and can become the eyes and ears of their communities. Just by being vigilant and reporting details of car registrations plates, descriptions of offenders, times and dates, we stand a better chance of catching these people and prosecuting them. That also helps recoup some of the money we spend in clearing up their mess.”

The council has made a funding commitment to tackle environmental issues in the budget for the next 12 months which was agreed at a meeting of the full council last month.

There are now more ways than ever before for people to report incidents of fly-tipping, and other issues to the council. People can call Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345 or email dudleycouncilplus@dudley.gov.uk Reports can also be made through direct message on Twitter or via the Dudley Council smartphone app.