A van suspected of being used for fly-tipping has been seized by council officers.

Working in partnership with Merseyside Police, they seized the white Ford Transit

Councils have the power to carry out such seizures if they have evidence to suspect a vehicle is being used to illegally dump waste in a way that could cause pollution to the environment or harm to human health.

It is the first time these powers have been used in the region.

An application can now be made to the magistrates’ court for the van to be forfeited.

Councillor Steve Munby, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “Fly-tipping is a criminal offence. It is anti-social, causes a blight on neighbourhoods and results in distress and nuisance for residents.

“We have always said we will take any action we could against those responsible, and now that we have powers to seize vans suspected to be involved in this illegal activity we will use them.

“If you use a ‘man and van service’ to dispose of waste or unwanted items, you should always make sure that it is somebody who is properly licensed as a waste carrier and will responsibly dispose of whatever you give them. Ask for a receipt and make a note of the registration number of their vehicle.

It's a pity that they can't be this high profile when the travellers come to town and leave the sites in a disgusting state.

Get it crushed.