Hundreds of tonnes of fly-tipped rubbish have been cleared thanks to an ongoing multi-agency project utilising prisoners.
Operation Fly Swat has dealt with more than 5,000 jobs since its inception four years ago. And it’s led to £300,000 worth of fly-tip clearance in South Holland and Boston being achieved for just £60,000.
Boston Borough Council oversees the scheme, and the costs are kept down by using free manpower from HM Prison North Sea Camp.
A council spokesman said: “The scheme doesn’t take advantage of chain-gang prisoners.
“Those who work in the supervised fly-tip team are volunteers risk assessed for suitability. They are prisoners nearing the end of their sentences and due for release and they benefit from developing a work ethic, paying back to society and developing skills and qualifications which may be useful to them in the outside world.”
Drainage channels are often fly-tipping hotspots, often because of their isolated nature. Dumped rubbish can cause blockages and damage to pumps which can lead to flooding.
As a result, the four drainage boards which cover the area and the Environment Agency in particular, have recognised the benefits of having a permanent fly-tip squad on patrol at a time of acute financial pressure.
When fly-tips are dealt with, searches are made for evidence which might identify the culprits.
Partners which contribute to the project are Boston Borough Council, HM Prison North Sea Camp, South Holland District Council, Lincolnshire County Council, Environment Agency, Black Sluice, Witham Fourth, Welland and Deepings and South Holland Internal Drainage Boards, Longhurst and Havelok and Mayflower Housing Associations.
