Fine issued after fly-tipping reported in Carrick

It comes as the local authority warns of enforcement in response to a rise in fly-tipping in the borough

Referring to the person behind the Sunnylands incident, a council spokesperson said: “They have received an £80 FPN (fixed penalty notice). If payment is made within 10 days then FPN is discounted to £50. The FPN has been paid. The landowner will be required to remove the rubbish from the site.

“The vast majority of people in the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council area continue to play their part in recycling and properly disposing of their household waste, so that we can keep our community tidy and safe for all.

“Unfortunately, however, we witnessed an almost 30 per cent increase in fly-tipping in our borough from January 1 to July 31 2020. Enforcement in known hotspots continues to be a priority for our teams.

“We would encourage anyone who wishes to report a fly tipping incident to use our Reportable App at https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/Reportable”

The affected site in the Sunnylands Avenue area is owned by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. A spokesperson for the housing body said: “Our staff met with Councillor Cheryl Johnston last week regarding rubbish being dumped in the Sunnylands area. Arrangements have been made to remove the debris, and the area will now be included as part of our routine inspections. We will also be trimming trees, hedges and grass at the site.

“We encourage all residents to safely dispose of their rubbish as littering will attract rodents. Tenants can contact us, or the local council, to report any incidents of littering or fly-tipping.”

Commenting on the issue, Cllr Johnston said: “Thankfully evidence was found on the scene and the person has been fined. But this shouldn’t even have to happen.”

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Click here to read East Antrim residents urged to be vigilant after cold callers target homes

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