10,500 fly-tipping cases in Suffolk over last 3 years

Nearly £38,000 has been paid out in fixed penalty notices and prosecution costs as district councils in the region look to crack down on the issue. 

Data obtained through a Freedom of Information request has revealed a total of 10,586 fly-tipping incidents have been reported since 2022. 

Fly-tipping which was reported in Nacton, outside Ipswich, earlier this year (Image: Scott Ungless)

Figures from East Suffolk Council show 4,761 cases have been reported by the public during that time, with 1,716 cases reported in 2022. 

So far this year, 1,349 cases have been reported. An East Suffolk Council spokesperson said there has been a year-on-year fall since 2020/21. 

"The number of fly-tipping incidents reported across East Suffolk has fallen year-on-year between 2020/21 and 2023/24," the spokesperson said. 

"Nevertheless, we remain vigilant and will continue to take measures aimed at reducing incidents, including issuing financial penalties where appropriate."

The council received £2,060 from fixed penalty notices issued during that period, while £660 was received in prosecution costs for cases which ended in court. One person also received a prison sentence for fly-tipping. 

Jason Alexander, founder of Rubbish Walks, often comes across fly-tipping while out on litter picks and beach cleans. 

He recently went on holiday and on his return, came across "at least three" cases of dumped rubbish. 

"I do this thing regularly and every time you come across an instance of fly-tipping it makes my blood boil," said Mr Alexander. 

"You just can't understand why anyone thinks it is acceptable."

Ipswich Borough Council recouped £25,835 in fines as a result of fly-tipping offences, including £13,721 alone in 2023. 

Data from the authority shows 963 cases reported in 2022, 1,287 in 2023 and 825 in 2024. 

Fly-tipping which was reported in Crowfield in 2023. Almost 11,000 cases have been reported over the last three years (Image: Mid Suffolk District Council)

West Suffolk Council, Mid Suffolk and Babergh have all seen a gradual decline - although there was a slight rise from 348 in 2022 to 389 in 2023 for the latter district. 

A spokesperson for Babergh and Mid Suffolk councils said: "Fly-tipping is a criminal offence and one that we take extremely seriously, with our teams always investigating for evidence before clearance, with those convicted facing large fines, or even prison."

Dave Taylor, of West Suffolk Council (Image: West Suffolk Council)

Dave Taylor, cabinet member for operations for West Suffolk Council, said: “We welcome the news about fly-tipping incidents reducing as part of our priority around creating thriving communities and a resilient environment.

"But it still remains an issue and we would urge the minority who do fly tip to dispose of their rubbish responsibly as we will prosecute." 

Mr Alexander believes educating people of all ages could play a vital part in reducing the number of fly-tipping cases.

He added: "There is lots more we can do in schools to educate kids about the issue but there is lots we can do with adults as well."

"One of the issues is people who came across fly-tipping and they are not sure how to report it or they will think someone else will report it. Don't assume someone reported it. 

"The more we can do to encourage people to consider the issue and think about their actions. 

"We all have the power to make a real difference."

Mr Alexander added that fly-tipping should be reported through the relevant council's website.