'This kind of fly-tipping is absolutely unacceptable': Council responds to calls for action in Northampton hotspot

The authority has told the LDRS that it recognises residents’ concerns about fly-tipping in the Semilong area and that it will be working to identify any offenders and take action where possible.

Nadia Lincoln Local Democracy Reporter | Thursday 30th July 2026 4:51pm

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has confirmed that fly-tipping in a hotspot area in Northampton has “increased significantly”, after a local councillor raised concerns that it was becoming “a rubbish tip” for the town.

Councillor Farzana Aldridge (Lib Dem) spoke out about the illegal waste dumping issue in her ward earlier this week, requesting urgent action from the council.

She warned that the area was at a “crisis point” after being repeatedly targeted by fly-tipping and criminal activity. Her demands for the area included dedicated CCTV coverage, high visibility wardens and stronger enforcement action.

In a statement to the LDRS, the authority said that fly-tipping in the area has increased significantly and that its contractor, Veolia, regularly attends Semilong to clear reported incidents.

The spokesperson added: “There is a cleansing crew in the area at least once a week and often more frequently. The location on Baker Street was last cleared on Friday and is scheduled to be attended again.

“Neighbourhood Wardens regularly patrol the area and we use reports from residents, councillors and partner organisations to identify locations that require additional attention.

“We use a range of methods to investigate and tackle fly-tipping and will take enforcement action where there is sufficient evidence. This can include surveillance measures where appropriate. CCTV can be considered in areas affected by persistent fly-tipping, but we do not discuss specific locations as this could affect ongoing investigations. We also encourage residents to share any doorbell camera, CCTV or dashcam footage that may help identify offenders.

“We would also ask residents to dispose of waste responsibly. Excess waste can be taken to a household waste recycling centre or collected through the council’s bulky waste service. Anyone paying a company to remove waste should check that it has a valid waste carrier’s licence.”

Currently, the authority has enforcement power to issue fixed penalty notices of up to £1,000 to perpetrators of fly-tipping, and to seize vehicles which have been used in the act.

New government legislation announced in July 2026 has now increased the maximum on-the-spot fine for fly-tipping waste by fivefold to £5,000, however local authorities will retain full control over the level of fine issued in their area.

WNC has said it is currently reviewing the very recently announced changes before deciding whether it will look to alter existing fine levels.

Cllr Andrew Last, cabinet member for HR, corporate services and regulatory services, added: “We would urge everyone to take some pride in their community and it is important that people only put out their rubbish on the morning it is due for collection.

“This kind of fly-tipping is absolutely unacceptable and we will be working to identify the offenders and taking action where we can.”

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