DARLINGTON Borough Council has promised 'tough action' on fly-tipping cases following this fly-tipping incident at Longfield Point captured by the Northern Echo's photographer

Some local authorities in the region have seen a large increase in fly-tipping.

Richmond District Council said its officers have dealt with a three-fold increase in fly-tipping and Hambleton District council saw 18 fly-tipping incidents between April 1 and April 17.

Local authorities responsible for closing household waste recycling centres have been facing calls to reopen in order to combat the problem.

As early as April 2 fly-tippers were warned not to take advantage of the Covid-19 crisis. Households were urged not to undertake major clear-outs during the lockdown and there were calls on the government to designate recycling centre workers as an essential service.

Darlington Council said it has not seen a significant increase in fly-tipping incidents since lockdown, but has urged the public to remain vigilant.

Councillor Andy Keir, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for local services, said: “Fly-tipping is a blight on communities, and the fact we have had to temporarily close our recycling centre due to Covid-19 is absolutely no excuse for illegally dumping rubbish.

"We will work with partners to investigate the source of this fly-tip. Tough action will be taken against anyone found to be responsible for fly-tipping – this could include a hefty fine. As ever, I would urge the public to be vigilant and let us know about any fly-tipping incidents.”