RUBBISH and fly-tipping will be tackled by public and community involvement, say councillors in Ceredigion.

A task and finish group recently investigated fly-tipping in the county and although not as much of a problem in other areas, it was felt to be important that the council be “proactive wherever possible".

The group’s report was discussed at a healthier communities overview and scrutiny committee at Ceredigion County Council on Tuesday, 25 April.

“People have to take responsibility for their own areas,” the meeting was told by Sue Darnbrook, strategic director for care protection.

Members agreed that a recommendation to bring communities and key partners together including town and community councils to maximise effectiveness.

Information about fly-tipping would also be incorporated into Caru Ceredigion, a scheme aiming to inspire the public to take more action to benefit their own areas.

Local environment services group manager, Gerwyn Jones, told the committee: “We’re not saying there isn’t a problem but most people do treat the environment with respect.”

Mr Jones, who was also on the task and finish group, added that there were resources available to help communities clean up their areas but the council’s role was more “operational.”

Cllr Peter Davies said that CCTV should be used more and the most effective deterrent to fly-tipping would be to “take these people to court and impose substantial financial penalties".

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