CCTV has been installed in Cinderford in a bid to stop fly-tipping on land close to the Forest Vale Industrial Estate.

If successful it could mean an end to a notorious eyesore which has been blighting the town.

Members of the public and businesses may inadvertently be putting themselves at risk of prosecution by dumping items at the site in Valley Road which was previously used by a local scrap dealer.

The Forest of Dean District Council and Cinderford Town Council have been working together to resolve the on-going problem following an escalation in complaints from residents about items being dumped illegally at the site.

The items being left are not only causing an eyesore for those living nearby but are also posing a threat to wildlife and children who may be playing in the area.

Councillor Marrilyn Smart, Cabinet Member for the Environment at the Forest of Dean District Council, said: "Following intervention by the council’s enforcement team the land at Valley Road is no longer being used by the scrap dealer in question.

"We would remind householders and businesses alike that they have a duty to dispose of their items responsibly and legally and should not be leaving any items at Valley Road which is classed as fly-tipping."

She added: "We hope the CCTV, along with additional signage at the site informing the public that they cannot leave their items, will prevent any reoccurrence of the problem and send a clear message that fly-tipping will not be tolerated and that we will take legal action against those individuals found to be responsible."

Anyone witnessing fly-tipping can report it to the council by calling 01594 810000 or by emailing [email protected] giving as much information as possible.