A VAN used to dump waste illegally during a string of fly-tipping offences has been seized by Council officers after it was spotted parked on double yellow lines.

Bradford Council has described the seizure as a "small victory" in the war against fly tipping, and attempts are now being made to find the owner of the van, which will either be sold or crushed.

The 14-year-old Renault Kangoo had been seen on at least six occasions, fly-tipping in and around the Bradford West area.

However, Council officers suspect it could have been involved in many more incidents.

A Council worker spotted the van parked on double yellow lines on Upper Woodlands Road, off Duckworth Lane, earlier this week.

A recovery truck was called and the van was loaded up and taken away.

Enquires are being made to find the registered keeper of the van so they can be questioned about the fly-tipping.

Using powers which came into force in 2015, local authorities can seize a vehicle if there is evidence that it has been used for fly-tipping and a there is a suspicion that it may be used again.

The owner now has 15 days to come forward to claim the van but if not, the Council has the option to sell the vehicle and use the proceeds in the fight against environmental crime.

If the van is judged to be worthless and un-roadworthy - as is often the case - it will be disposed of.

Man fined after waste was dumped near Horton Park Primary School

Last time the Council seized a van involved in fly-tipping it was taken to a scrap yard and crushed.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, said: “This is another small victory in the on-going war against fly-tipping criminals.

“Seizing this van has put at least one fly-tipper out of business and we will do everything we can to track down those people who have been making money out of damaging our environment and to make them pay for their crimes.

“Fly-tipping is a blight on our communities and we are doing our best to try to tackle it, but we need members of the public to support our efforts by reporting offenders.”

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

People are also reminded that if they use unlicensed traders to get rid of their rubbish they are also liable if it is fly-tipped and traced back to them.

They can end up with a Fixed Penalty Notice of £250 or a prosecution through the courts.