New powers to crackdown on the "scourge" of fly-tipping in Walsall have been welcomed by council chiefs.

The Government introduced new legislation this week which place a legal duty of care to ensure their waste is handed to licensed carriers or risk being hit with fines of up to £400 if the rubbish is found to be fly-tipped.

Previously, councils would have to go through the lengthy and costly process through the courts to secure convictions against residents guilty of not disposing of their waste correctly.

Fly-tipped waste on Rayboulds Bridge Road, Walsall
Fly-tipped waste on Rayboulds Bridge Road, Walsall

It is now hoped that the instant fine system will help local authorities combat the blight on their communities.

Walsall Council has already launched new initiatives to tackle the problem in the borough, including introducing 'Most Wanted' initiative on its website.

Mike Bird, leader of Walsall Council said: "This is just another weapon in our armoury to combat the scourge of fly tipping affecting the borough."

Cllr Mike Bird

Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for leisure, community and culture, said: "This is a further step in supporting our efforts to clean-up our borough and hold those responsible to account.

"We should not have to do it to start with however the consequences of people's behaviour are all too often there to see."

Both Councillors Bird and Perry have previously hailed the Walsall's Most Wanted initiative for the impact it is having on their fight against fly-tipping.

Fly tipping in Walsall
Fly tipping in Walsall

It offers residents a reward of £500 if information they provide leads to a successful prosecution of fly-tippers.

Residents can find out more about the scheme and see the latest appeals posted on the Most Wanted page at: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/environment/street_care_and_cleaning/fly_tipping/walsalls_most_wanted