Council Seizes Van and Launches Prosecution After 'Disgusting' Mill Hill Lane Fly-Tip

Burnley Council’s Enforcement Team has taken decisive action against a fly-tipper, successfully seizing the vehicle used in a major fly-tipping incident reported on Mill Hill Lane in Hapton. The council has confirmed it will pursue a full prosecution, with the van potentially facing the crusher.

The white van, believed to have been used to illegally dump a large quantity of waste, was seized late yesterday afternoon as part of the council’s commitment to a zero-tolerance approach to environmental crime.

Councillor Jamie McGowan who represents Hapton with Park residents said:

"This is exactly the type action residents expect and deserve. We received reports of this disgusting fly-tip on Mill Hill Lane, and thanks to quick work and information from the public, we have tracked down the suspected perpetrator, a man from Blackburn, and, crucially, seized his vehicle."

"It needs to be seen as a clear warning. Those who do this will be caught and prosecuted. That’s not just the threat of a fine but also the crushing of a vehicle.”

The council confirmed the vehicle's fate hangs on the owner's response and the outcome of the court case. If the suspect fails to claim ownership the vehicle will be deemed abandoned and arrangements will be made for its destruction/crushing. If the suspect claims ownership the van will remain seized as evidence until the case is heard in court.

The council confirmed that the suspect will be interviewed under caution in the new year as the prosecution process begins.