(Image: Supplied)
AN MP has welcomed a national crackdown on waste crime, including proposals that could force offenders to clean up their own mess.
Judith Cummins, MP for Bradford South, has backed the tougher measures, which support her long-running campaign against illegal dumping and waste gangs.
She has formed a working group with Incommunities, West Yorkshire Police, and Bradford Council to coordinate action against waste crime in the district.
Ms Cummins said: "Local people have had to put up with the blight of waste crime for far too long.
"These new measures are a major step forward and give communities the stronger powers we have been fighting for to clean up our neighbourhoods and crack down on the criminals who think they can dump waste with impunity.
"I want to again thank the Telegraph & Argus for its persistent campaigning on this issue.
"People in Bradford South should not have to live with the eyesore, environmental damage, and anti-social behaviour caused by fly-tipping.
"Together, we are sending a clear message: time is up for waste criminals in Bradford."
Already this year, the partnership has led to vehicle seizures, thousands of pounds in fines, and a 10-month jail sentence for one offender.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced the next phase of the Government’s war on waste crime, with new powers focused on organised fly-tipping across the UK.
The plans include drones to spot illegal dumping, more Environment Agency officers, tougher penalties, and greater involvement from West Yorkshire Police and the National Crime Agency.
A consultation has also begun on “clean-up squads,” which could see offenders forced to do up to 20 hours of unpaid work clearing waste, while covering the full costs of the clean-up.
Ms Cummins said she would work closely with West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and others to ensure the new powers are used to their fullest.
She said: "I’m delighted that West Yorkshire is among the first areas to benefit from strengthened powers to tackle waste crime.
"There is no place for organised waste criminals in Bradford South, and I will work with West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and our local partners to ensure these new powers are used to their fullest extent."
One of the targeted sites is the Midland Road dump in Bradford, where 2,000 tonnes of illegal waste have been left.