CONCERNS have been raised amid claims of a "surge" in fly-tipping in Bradford during the coronavirus lockdown.

Bradford Council, like most across the country, has been forced to close all its household waste recycling centres across the district as it prioritises staff resources.

It said last month: "Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, Bradford Council is taking action to protect our most vulnerable staff and make arrangements to continue to serve the district. This means we are beginning see a shortage of staff in some areas and we must prioritise. For that reason all our eight Household Waste Recycling Centres have been closed today [March 25] and will remain so until further notice."

Green Party campaigner Matt Edwards said he has reported several instances of fly-tipping in Holmewood, including some which had also been set on fire.

He said residents have also reported an increase in fly-tipping in the field off Cliff Hollins Lane, between Oakenshaw and East Bierley.

Earlier this year, data revealed that Bradford ranks in the top five fly-tipping 'hotspots' in England.

Mr Edwards said: “Temporarily closing the recycling centres was absolutely the right thing to do during the lockdown.

“It’s unbelievable that during this time of national crisis that Bradford Council is having to try and allocate staff to clear up rubbish because people are choosing to be so selfish and inconsiderate.

"There have been reports from across the country of a spate of fly-tipping incidents in recent weeks following the closure of most tips and recycling centres

"Earlier this year, Bradford Council committed to investing additional funds to purchase fifteen new mobile cameras that are able to capture the registration numbers of vehicles involved in fly-tipping. I urge everyone, if you see fly-tipping – report it. That is the only way Bradford Council is going to know where to target its resources and help catch people doing this."

A spokesperson for Bradford Council said: “Due to the present medical emergency we do not have enough staff to operate our Household Waste Recycling Centres, but we are continuing with bin collections.

“Whatever the situation, there is no excuse for fly-tipping which is an anti-social and criminal activity.

“Despite the shortage of manpower, we will do our best to investigate incidents of fly-tipping to try and catch those responsible.

“Bradford Council employs a range of measures to tackle fly-tipping including CCTV cameras to catch the culprits and seizing vehicles known to be involved in fly-tipping.

“We have the power to issue Fixed Penalty Notices or to prosecute through Magistrates’ and Crown courts to fly-tippers and to householders who allow their goods to be fly-tipped by rogue traders.

“We also need people to help us in our battle against this menace. If you see fly-tipping taking place, please note down as many details as possible, including vehicle licence plate numbers and inform the Council."

Fly-tippers can be reported be calling the Council 01274 431000 or online at www.bradford.gov.uk.