Fly-tippers and people who drop litter will continue to face hefty fines and prosecution ABC Council has warned, after a number of offenders appeared before court this month.
Fines totalling £1,025 and costs of £971 were awarded against six residents of the borough for environmental offences in cases brought by the council.
In Newry Court, an Armagh man who was observed dumping six bags of domestic waste was fined £500 with £131 costs and £15 offender’s levy.
At the same sitting, a Banbridge man observed throwing a cigarette butt from his car window was fined £150, with £135 costs and £15 offender’s levy.
At Craigavon Court, a Lurgan woman who fly tipped furniture and cardboard boxes on the street was fined £200, with £143 costs and £15 offender’s levy, whilst a Portadown woman fly tipped cardboard boxes was fined £100 with £142 costs and £15 offender’s levy.
A Lurgan woman observed throwing a cigarette butt from her car window was fined, as was a Portadown man who left cardboard boxes and carpet on the street.
A spokesperson for Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council welcomed the fines imposed. “There is no excuse for dumping rubbish or dropping litter and as a council we will continue to pursue those responsible,” they said.
“We know that litter and fly-tipping is a major concern for our residents and these fines show that offenders can be detected and will be fined as a consequence of the actions. Great efforts are being made to clean up our green spaces but we also want to stop litter and fly-tipping from happening in the first place.”
The council have also advised residents to the bulky waste collection service they offer which can be arranged by calling 0330 056 1020.