Fly tipping blights Newport and the surrounding areas because scrap merchants flout licensing laws, a town businessman claimed this week.
Legitimate scrap collector Carl Dixon, of Newport Scrappies, said that residents who give rubbish to unlicensed collectors were encouraging fly tipping and benefit fraud.
Mr Dixon’s plea for responsible disposal of bulk goods comes after the Council was called in to clear a fridge and shower tray carelessly dumped at Newport Skate Park last week.
That was the ninth time the Council has been called to Newport this year to deal with fly tipping.
In 2009 there were 24 incidents and 23 in 2008
Mr Dixon said that residents should always check that the people who are taking their rubbish have the correct paperwork.
He said: “The public and certain businesses in Newport are encouraging fly tipping by giving old scrap metal objects and white goods to unlicensed collectors.
“They the scourge of this town, blowing horns and playing loud speakers at a weekend.
“If a collectors is unlicensed, it is an offence for them to collect any form of rubbish and it’s an offence for the householder or business to give any form of rubbish.”
Residents can check that a scrap collector is legitimate by asking to see their Waste Management Licence.
Newport resident Beryl Jones, aged 80, has had a sofa in her front garden for weeks as she struggles to find anyone willing to take it away.
She said: “I’ve been trying to get rid of a chair but the Council want money to come and take it away.
“I’m a pensioner and I can’t afford to pay anyone to do it.
“It’s really infuriating. You try and get your house up-to-date but I’m left with a chair in my front garden.
“It’s no wonder fly tipping happens.”
Telford & Wrekin Council collect bulk rubbish for £15 for up to six items.
Concessions are only available to those with disability allowances.
Council spokesman Jonathan Rowe said: “We are currently reviewing the service.
“Anyone who wants to contact us about the service and to find out more should call Customer Services on (01952) 384384.
“Residents can also take their items to their local CRC Community Recycling Centre, where there is no charge for disposing of their household items.”
Anyone found guilty of fly tipping can be fined up to £50,000 and face up to 12 months in prison.
By Sean Wozencroft