New data from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has highlighted the increasing problem in Bromley.
The figures indicate that in the year leading up to March 2023, there were 3,626 reported fly-tipping incidents in the borough—a marginal increase from 3,558 in the previous year and the highest recorded figure since the inception of records in 2012-13.
This spike in incidents translated to 11 fly-tipping occurrences per 1,000 people in the area, reflecting a growing concern for environmental and public health.
The majority of fly-tipped waste in Bromley was found on highways, constituting a significant 84 per cent of recorded incidents.
Council land followed at 11 per cent. Household waste was identified as the primary contributor, accounting for 60 per cent of all reported incidents.
The number of fixed penalty notices issued across the country fell from 91,000 in 2021-22 to 73,000 in 2022-23, with 27 in Bromley.
While the average court fine increased by 13% to £526, there were fewer fines given last year with a total value of £785,000 compared to £837,000 in the year before.
In Bromley, £2,701 was paid by those found guilty of fly-tipping.
Councillor Will Rowlands, Executive Councillor for Environment said: “The latest national flytipping incident data shows that the problem of dumped rubbish continues to be a serious issue, with the data also showing that Bromley is in a good position compared to the rest of London.
“Only 3 Boroughs recorded fewer flytipping incidents than Bromley, which, considering Bromley is London’s largest borough, with the most miles of road, is actually a good outcome.
“Residents will know that we are cracking down on the flytippers and prosecuting offenders but we all have a part to play in this.
“Residents and businesses need to remember to only use bonafide waste disposal businesses, checking whether the person is a licensed waste carrier.
“A big thank you to everyone who has reported a dumped rubbish incident to us, which means we are able to respond more promptly, where residents can also track the progress of their report and see it is being actioned.”
People can report fly-tipping using this link www.bromley.gov.uk/report.
Darren Rodwell, environment spokesperson for the Local Government Association, said: “Fly-tipping is inexcusable. It is not only an eyesore for residents, but a serious public health risk, creating pollution and attracting rats and other vermin.
“This decrease in fly-tipping is positive, and a testament to the hard work of councils. We continue to urge the Government to review sentencing guidelines for fly-tipping, so that offenders are given bigger fines for more serious offences to act as a deterrent.
“Manufacturers should also contribute to the costs to councils of clear up, by providing more take-back services so people can hand in old furniture and mattresses when they buy new ones.”
