COUNCILLORS in Bradford have welcomed a fly-tipping crackdown where offenders might be forced to carry out clean-ups.

Litter louts could face fines of up to £150 for dropping rubbish, under plans unveiled by the Government.

People who litter the streets could face increased fixed penalties while the owners of vehicles could be fined if rubbish is thrown from their car by any driver or passenger, under measures being consulted on as part of a national litter strategy.

Ministers will also stop councils charging residents for disposing of household DIY waste at tips, as by law it should be free to dispose of such waste at municipal sites. They have warned that charges can contribute to fly-tipping.

The Government also wants offenders on community service, including fly-tippers, to help clean up the streets.

New guidance for councils will be issued with new designs and better distribution of public litter-bins.

The Government’s plans have been supported by Bradford Council.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the Council’s executive member for environment, sport and culture, said: “We welcome any support from the Government’s national litter strategy in taking action against people who ruin the environment with litter and fly-tipped rubbish. We want to do as much as we can to discourage irresponsible behaviour and to promote good behaviour.”

Meanwhile, angry residents say the back garden of an empty house in New Hey Road, East Bowling, is being used as a dumping ground.

A sofa, mattress and a number of bags of household rubbish have been left at the property over the last two years.

Pam Marsden, 48, who lives next door, said: “It’s a real eyesore. I have grandchildren and I don’t want them to be playing out near it.

“I’m fed up with it. It has been a dumping ground for the last two years. It looks terrible. I just can’t understand why people would do this. There could be rats around these bags too.”

A Bradford Council spokesman said the fly-tipping problems had been reported to the Council and notice had been served to the owner of the property to remove the rubbish. The notice runs out on Saturday and if the rubbish has not been cleared by then, the local authority can take enforcement action.