ALMOST 30 vehicles were stopped and searched in an operation to catch fly-tippers and illegal waste carriers earlier this month.

Environmental Enforcement Officers from Bradford Council and Neighbourhood Police in Bradford South worked together on the joint operation aimed at those transporting waste without the relevant licences and associated documentation.

It took place in the Holme Wood and Bierley areas on Friday, February 10, as part of a Bradford-wide clampdown.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The operation took place in the Holme Wood and Bierley areas on Friday, February 10, as part of a Bradford-wide clampdownThe operation took place in the Holme Wood and Bierley areas on Friday, February 10, as part of a Bradford-wide clampdown (Image: Bradford Council)

On the day, 28 vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in legal notices being issued that meant drivers had to produce their waste carrier licence and relevant documentation to ensure waste was disposed of properly.

Some drivers carrying waste were unaware they needed a licence and were given advice and warnings by officers and provided with application packs on how to obtain Waste Carrier and Scrap Metal Dealer Licences from the Environment Agency and the council.

Two vehicles were seized by police for having no insurance.

Police Sergeant Dan Stoker, of Bradford South’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This operation is all part of our continued commitment to making Holme Wood a better and safer place to live.

“Through working with our partners we are striving to build relationships in the community to show that we are listening to their concerns and tackling the issues within the area.”

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Healthy People and Places, said: “We are determined to do all we can to tackle the scourge of illegal fly tipping and employ all the means at our disposal.

“Illegal waste carriers are warned that we plan to carry out more of these stop-and-search operations across the district.

"They should be aware that they could receive a £300 fixed penalty notice.

"Individuals and businesses found illegally carrying waste could also be prosecuted in court and given custodial sentences, have vehicles seized and be hit with fines that can run into thousands of pounds.

“Through a mixture of enforcement and education, we are hoping that joint working with the police will encourage waste carriers to ensure they’re above board and legal.”

Householders have a legal duty of care to ensure that their waste carrier is registered and legitimate waste carriers will be happy to produce the relevant documents.

Customers can also check the Environment Agency website to see the register of licensed waste carriers.

If you witness fly-tipping taking place and have information, visit www.bradford.gov.uk or telephone 01274 431000.