THERE will be a crackdown on fly-tipping in east Cheshire with new officers being commissioned to tackle the problem.

Cheshire East Council has commissioned the new team to combat what it has called a “widespread issue”, with a focus on littering and fly-tipping over the next 12 months.

This is in addition to the engagement work already being carried out by CEC staff, who will focus on “engagement, education and enforcement”.

The officers will begin in Crewe, but are responsive to situations across the borough.

Councillor Paul Bates, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for communities and health, said: “We’ve made our position clear on this matter. Enough is enough. The recruitment of these officers is a clear sign of how seriously we take this issue.

“We are an enforcing council but we also have a duty to ensure that we do everything we can to help people get access to the information to stop them fly-tipping in the future. Looking at the bigger picture, this really is as much about education as it is enforcement.”

The private contractors started last week and have handed out 232 fixed-penalty notices.

Fixed penalty notices will be issued for £80 for dog fouling and littering. Fly-tippers will be fined £400.

Fly-tipping can be reported by calling 0300 123 5021.