FLY-TIPPING hotspots are being targeted as part of a crackdown on littering across the Avenues in Hull.
Environmental Neighbourhood Nuisance Officers have so far carried out patrols in Suffolk Street and Sharp Street, off Newland Avenue, following a rise in complaints about dog fouling and fly-tipping.
Now councillors are urging residents to report cases of littering in the tenfoots and are in discussions with landlords about preventing fly-tipping near their properties.
Newland ward Councillor Mike Ross said: "This is a number one issue for the streets off Newland Avenue and the ward and we are doing all we can to get these cleaned up.
"We are also looking to work with landlords in the area on taking this matter forward and we are appealing for everyone's help in getting information that can be used to gather evidence about who is causing these problems in the first place.
"This is an issue that has got worse over the last year.
"While it is by no means a new thing, it is certainly increasing."
Councillors are using part of their local ward fund to pay for the clean-ups.
More dog fouling warning signs and stickers have been placed in the area and there were letter drops along litter-strewn streets warning residents who have waste in their ten-foots.
Absent landlords will meet with councillors because often their tenants will dump unwanted belongings in the street.
Cllr Ross said: "It has been noticed there has been more of a problem lately with bulky items.
"In terms of landlords, that is for a more long-term solution.
"We want to work with landlords on ideas of how to stop this in the first place.
"We have now come together to decide which idea works best."
Hull City Council is able to fine offenders but gathering strong enough evidence for conviction can prove difficult.
Now, Cllr Ross wants residents to keep a lookout and report offending.
He said: "The council will go through fly-tipped rubbish to find that evidence but if they don't find it, they cannot take action.
"From my point of view, this is less about punishment and more about stopping it from happening in the first place."
Visit www.hullcc.gov.uk, email hull.citysafe@hullcc. gov.uk or call 01482 300300 to report littering.
Email Cllr Ross to volunteer your help at councillor. ross@hullcc.gov.uk or call 01482 613631.
