Bolton West MP Phil Brickell has launched a new campaign to tackle fly-tipping, after residents repeatedly raised concerns about the problem.
The new campaign aims to tackle the issue head-on, working alongside volunteers, schools, businesses and local organisations in a bid to clean up Bolton West.
Mr Brickell said: “Time and time again, residents tell me that fly-tipping is a scourge across our neighbourhoods.
"At one recent pop-up surgery that I held, every resident who came over to speak to me told me that fly-tipping or littering is a problem in their area.
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“One café owner assured me that council staff are in the area picking up litter throughout the day, yet there is always more to collect.
“That’s why I’ve launched my own campaign to help tackle fly-tipping and littering.
“My thanks go to all the volunteers who give up so much of their time to tackle the litter problem.
"We should all be grateful for their dedication to our community. My campaign is in addition to the fantastic work that they do.
“If we want to effectively tackle litter and fly-tipping, we need to take a multi-pronged approach: one that works with education, local businesses and the local community, as well as the Council and the government.
“The Labour government has given more powers to Britain’s local councils, including Bolton Council, to equip them to deal with fly-tipping.
"This should lead to it being easier to identify the perpetrators of fly-tipping, enabling Bolton Council to enforce fines for fly-tippers.
“One of the major issues with enforcement is proving just who has committed a particular act of fly-tipping; evidence can often be destroyed by the weather.
“Based on this reasoning, I’m working with local primary schools and ‘Love Bolton, Hate Litter’ to help identify fly-tipping sooner and to get it reported quickly.
“If we value where we live, we must work together to keep our environment clean.
"It’s a travesty that people think that it’s acceptable to leave mattresses, sofas and hardcore in our local beauty spots.
“There are many ways you can get involved! I’ve recently launched a competition- I’m asking all school children in our Bolton West constituency to design, in a medium of their choice, something which will educate people about fly-tipping.
“The closing date for this is July 31 and entries should be sent via post to Phil Brickell MP, Houses of Parliament, London, SW1A 0AA or email to phil.brickell.mp@parliament.uk Please encourage your local school to take part if you’re in Bolton West. This competition has kindly been sponsored by J Dickinsons and Sons."
The MP added that if you spot an instance of fly-tipping, report it to the council neighbourhood Services team at neighbourhoodservicesinbox@bolton.gov.uk or call 01204 336632.
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