Fly-tipping drains conservation funds in New Forest

Fly-tipping is imposing significant financial burdens, forcing Forestry England to reallocate funds away from essential conservation projects. In the New Forest National Park alone, 266 fly-tipping incidents occurred last year, generating 566 skip loads of illegally dumped waste.

This waste includes household items, building debris, and hazardous materials such as asbestos and burnt-out vehicles. The cost of clearing this rubbish diverts funds that would otherwise be used for tree planting, trail maintenance, and wildlife support. Staff hours are also redirected from vital duties to manage these incidents.

The problem extends beyond the New Forest, with a 10% increase in fly-tipping incidents reported across Hampshire, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight between 2024 and 2025, exceeding the national average. Councils nationwide dealt with approximately 1.26 million fly-tipping incidents in total, with hazardous waste posing risks to wildlife, livestock, crops, and the environment.

Farmers and landowners are also bearing the brunt of these costs and cleanup efforts, with some reporting a steady increase in dumped waste on their properties. This issue highlights a need for a more coordinated approach to identify and prosecute offenders and address the underlying reasons for illegal dumping, such as avoiding disposal fees.