
(Image: T&A)
FLY-TIPPED waste is being cleared from public land to prevent illegal bonfires.
Bradford Council's street cleansing teams are working with Incommunities to remove rubbish from council-owned and Incommunities land ahead of Bonfire Night.
The aim is to stop dangerous and unauthorised fires from being set using discarded materials.
Councillor Ian Walker, portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: "Saving up or collecting unwanted furniture or other items to build a bonfire is still fly-tipping if it’s on public land and poses a serious risk.
"So our teams and partners will be doing everything they can to ensure fly-tipped waste is removed, particularly in the run-up to Bonfire Night.
"We encourage people to go to organised events wherever possible."
Fly-tipping is a criminal offence and can result in a £1,000 fixed penalty notice, an unlimited court fine, or even a custodial sentence.
The council has stressed that leaving items such as sofas, mattresses or other bulky waste on public land for bonfire use is illegal and will be treated as fly-tipping.
Neighbourhood wardens are working with residents to raise awareness about responsible waste disposal and the dangers of fly-tipping, especially during the Bonfire Night period.
It is extremely selfish and dangerous to fly-tip combustible material during the Bonfire Night period.
The council is increasing street cleansing efforts in known fly-tipping hotspots and expanding its bulk waste collection service in the weeks leading up to Bonfire Night.
Additional support will also be provided for resident-led litter picks.
Officials have warned residents not to leave bulky waste outside unless a collection has been arranged through a licensed service or the council’s own scheme.
Uncollected items pose a fire risk, contribute to environmental hazards, and could lead to fines or prosecution.
Residents can also take unwanted items directly to a Household Waste Recycling Centre.
The council is urging the public to attend organised Bonfire Night events, which are managed with proper safety precautions in place.
Fly-tipping can be reported to Bradford Council on 01274 431000 or via this link.