A popular path in Redbourn has been blighted by fly-tipping, prompting the district council to warn that clearing up such mess is costing taxpayers.

The Herts Advertiser was contacted by a local resident, who was concerned about a pile of rubbish dumped illegally on the Nickey Line, blocking a section of it completely.

The man, who did not want to be named, said: “Fly-tipping in the area seems to be getting worse in my opinion. This morning I found the Nickey Line completely blocked near the M1 tunnel and opposite the road that heads into Redbourn.

“It seems to have been put there to deliberately block it. Families and kids who use the Nickey Line at this time of year won’t be able to get past it.”

Richard Shwe, head of community services at St Albans district council, said: “Last year we collected nearly seven tons of dumped waste from fly-tipping at a cost to taxpayers of £30,000.

“It’s a costly menace that leaves a nasty blot on our lovely landscape.”

He urged residents to take their waste to a local disposal site or businesses to a waste carrier registered with the Environment Agency.

Richard added: “You are responsible for what happens to your waste even after it has left your premises, and could be fined up to £50,000 or go to prison for up to five years if the waste is dumped.

“If you spot anyone dumping rubbish, please make a note of their vehicle details.

“A photo could give us the evidence we need to prosecute. We are very grateful to people who help us with this problem by telling us about it when they see it.”

To report fly-tipping contact 01727 819598 or email a.cleanerdistrict@stalbans.gov.uk