FLY tipping perpetrators are getting more and more “brazen”, an opposition councillor has claimed. 

Furious elected member Derek Bibby has slammed illegal dumpers for abandoning white goods and mattresses in a field in Johnstone. 

The culprits have left the rubbish behind a wall in Kilbarchan Road and Councillor Bibby believes they are becoming bolder in their behaviour. 

READ MORE: 'Report-it' app to be rolled out in a bid to tackle fly tipping

He said: “Those responsible have attempted to hide this behind the perimeter wall but it is clearly visible to the various people who have reported it to me. 

“Fly tippers are becoming more brazen with the council’s current enforcement policies, which are proving to be no deterrent. 

“The administration promised to be tough on fly tippers and ensure the environment improved. 

“This incident and others reported in Johnstone have led residents to ask if the town is a priority in this regard.

“There have been other examples in the town over the weeks that have been equally concerning.

“It’s up to the council t up their game and find the perpetrators and deal with them. I know it’s difficult but it should be a priority.

“I don’t think it’s being dealt with across the board in Renfrewshire.”

If an individual is caught fly tipping, they could face a fixed penalty notice of £200 or if taken to court a fine of up to £40,000 or even imprisonment. 

However, fly tippers are notoriously difficult to identify as they become wise to areas covered by CCTV and target blind spots. 

Renfrewshire Council has assured residents it will investigate the issue reported in Johnstone. 

A spokesman for the local authority said: “Fly tipping is illegal, unsightly and causes harm to the environment.

“We are working hard through our Team Up to Clean Up campaign to change people’s behaviour and ensure they recognise the damage they are doing when dumping their rubbish illegally.

READ MORE: Renfrewshire residents hit out as report confirms 25% spike in fly-tipping

“There is always another way to dispose of your rubbish and we would urge people to contact us before thinking of this as an option, as well as reporting any instances of fly tipping they encounter to our Wardens Service on 0300 300 0380.

“We will investigate the issue reported in Johnstone and, if it is identified as council land, we will take the appropriate action. Otherwise, we will speak with the landowner to ensure this is addressed.”

Read all the latest from Renfrewshire and beyond