BARNSLEY’S worst-impacted hotspots for fly-tipping are being targeted by enforcement officers who have vowed to continue cleaning up communities.
The Central Area Council commissioned a clean-up service which takes in Central, Dodworth, Kingstone, Stairfoot and Worsbrough wards.
Central and Kingstone - Barnsley’s worst areas for fly-tipping - have received more work between July and September, according to a quarterly report.
Councillors will meet on Wednesday to discuss the progress made over the summer.
“During the quarter, the primary focus has been on delivering proactive interventions across ward areas to address environmental concerns,” it added.
“By aligning closely with the ‘Envirocentral ‘team, targeted work in identified hotspots has generated significant outcomes and strengthened engagement with local communities.
“Alongside environmental improvements, a comprehensive area analysis was undertaken, involving door-to-door visits, garden inspections and assessments of housing conditions.
“This approach uncovered over 40 jobs requiring action, previously unknown empty properties, and several vulnerable tenants and owner-occupiers in need of urgent support.
“The work has prioritised improving living standards and tackling inequalities.
“Enforcement activity has also progressed, with case files prepared for non-compliance with community protection notices and one penalty notice issued for fly-tipping.
“These efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to safeguarding vulnerable residents, reducing environmental risks and promoting healthier, safer communities.
“By combining proactive engagement with targeted support, the team has not only addressed immediate needs but also laid the groundwork for longer-term improvements in housing quality and neighbourhood standards.
“Regular foot patrols at targeted fly-tipping hotspots have led to investigations, interviews and enforcement actions, which included a range of legal notices.
“These combined efforts demonstrate a proactive approach to improving neighbourhood standards, supporting vulnerable residents and maintaining cleaner, safer communities.”
Kingstone’s fly-tipping figures - which topped 1,058 alone in 2023/24 - dwarf those of other wards in the borough, with the neighbouring Central ward being one of only three Barnsley areas to post more than 500 incidents in the financial year.
A total of 318 residents were given advice during the July to September period, with 28 new fly-tipping cases recorded.
Coun Steve Bullcock, who represents the Kingstone ward, has long been campaigning for tougher stances and quicker dealings for those who choose to fly-tip on Barnsley’s streets.
Coun Bullcock says that around a third of all fly-tipping incidents across the borough take place in his ward.
He told the Chronicle: “The council team responsible for clearing fly tipped waste do an excellent job responding quickly to cleaning up clearing fly-tipping up.
“In all honesty they are second to none cleaning up after those that do not care.
“However cleaning up after others costs money - money that could be spent on looking after vulnerable people and other important matters that affect our town.
“We now have to up our game by catching more of those responsible for trashing our town fortunately it’s only small minority of individuals but it still costs in excess of £250,000 every year and shows no sign of reducing.
“We need to identify those responsible - if this means using modern technology along with such as covert or mobile cameras so be it.
“Coupled with other ideas we can end this never-ending problem in our town.”
If you do know who the perpetrators are, you owe it to your neighbours to report suspicions to the council to allow investigations - we cannot continue to ignore the systematic trashing of our communities.”
