Free bulky waste collections and the launch of a dedicated fly tip clearance crew are two major new pilot initiatives from Barking and Dagenham Council as it steps up efforts to tackle the ongoing problem of fly tipping.

Insight gathered from resident surveys and complaints shows that cleanliness remains one of the biggest concerns across the borough and the council shares that frustration. Like the rest of London and the country, Barking and Dagenham continues to face challenges with fly tipping and behaviours must change.

The council has already trialled a range of approaches, including its award winning ‘Wall of Shame’ video series and running two ‘Days of Action’ each month to tackle dumped waste in known hotspot areas as part of its CleanerBD campaign.

Residents can now book up to four bulky waste items to be collected for free, removing the previous £35 charge.

In addition, a new seven day a week fly tip response crew has been introduced to clear unreported fly tips more quickly.

Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of the Council said: “We’re determined to put an end to fly tipping in Barking and Dagenham and we’re hoping these new initiatives will be the start of the winning battle.”

Councillor Kashif Haroon, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Climate Change added: “These steps will hopefully yield noticeable results but clearing our streets is one thing, changing behaviours is another and we will continue to take action against people who fly-tip through fines and prosecution.”

The council is committed to continuing to work with residents, and is encouraging them to continue to report fly-tips via the council website: www.lbbd.gov.uk/pests-pollution-noise-and-food/street-cleaning-issues/report-fly-tipping.

And if they have evidence of who fly-tipped the waste to contact our environmental enforcement team by emailing grimecrime@lbbd.gov.uk.

Residents can find out more on the council website: www.lbbd.gov.uk/rubbish-recycling/enhanced-bulky-waste-and-fly-tip-service-frequently-asked-questions