Dumped roofing

Hazardous waste disposal experts have been examining the sheeting dumped in Bradmore Lane in order to assess whether it is a health risk and how to remove it.

Welwyn Hatfield Council, say it has received numerous complaints about this latest incident of fly tipping from concerned residents.

The sheeting, which looks like asbestos, was dumped halfway down Bradmore Lane more than a week ago.

An initial inspection was carried out by the council and the task of removing the waste has been passed on to Serco, the council's waste disposal partner.

According to the authority's website.

"the fly tipping of controlled waste is a serious criminal offence which carries a fine of up to £20,000 (unlimited if indicted to the Crown Court) or an offender can even be sent to prison. It is important to realise that it is also an offence to permit fly tipping.

"For example, in the case of dumping waste from vehicles, the legal owner of the vehicle can be prosecuted, if the vehicle is identifiable but not the perpetrator. Police also have the powers to seize vehicles used for flytipping."

The council has tips for people who see the results of fly tipping.

• Do not touch the waste: flytipped waste can be dangerous - it may contain syringes, broken glass, asbestos, toxic chemicals or other hazardous substances.
• Visually inspect the waste: try to determine what the waste consists of and how much there is.
• Take note of its exact location: and also, whether it is in or near water.
• Do not disturb the site: there may be evidence that could help identify the culprits and lead to their prosecution.

16 March 2009