More than 160 tyres were dumped in an alleyway behind homes in the Coppice area of Anfield, Liverpool, on Saturday. Men were reportedly seen unloading the tyres from a white van in broad daylight.
Liverpool City Council Liberal group leader Steve Radford stated that the tyres posed a significant fire risk to nearby houses. Laura Robertson-Collins, the council's cabinet member for communities, also said large amounts of rubber could present a "serious fire risk" and endanger residents.
The tyres have since been removed, and the council's environmental enforcement team has launched an investigation. Mr Radford said photographs of the individuals involved have been provided to the investigation team. The council confirmed its investigation would use all available evidence and that "appropriate action" would be taken against anyone found responsible.
The council noted that prosecution for such offences requires proof beyond reasonable doubt. Fly-tipping penalties introduced by the council range from £500 for up to three bags of domestic waste to £1,000 for commercial or business waste, or a domestic load equivalent to a light commercial van.