AI surveillance cameras deployed to combat fly-tipping

Residents across west Northamptonshire could benefit from cleaner neighbourhoods as AI-powered cameras are deployed to detect fly-tipping and support quicker enforcement against repeat offenders.
Residents may soon see fewer dumped rubbish bags as smart CCTV towers rotate through problem areas, using AI and vehicle recognition to help councils identify fly-tipping offenders faster.

New measures are being introduced in west Northamptonshire with the deployment of an AI-powered CCTV tower to combat fly-tipping in known hotspots. The mobile system will be rotated between locations until January 2027 to improve detection and deterrence.

Fly-tipping remains a significant issue across the area, with more than 21,000 incidents cleared between April 2024 and March 2025. Local authorities say illegal dumping damages neighbourhoods, harms wildlife and places a heavy financial burden on taxpayers.

The tower uses 360-degree cameras and AI to monitor activity and identify offences as they occur. Automatic number plate recognition allows enforcement officers to link incidents to suspected vehicles more quickly.

Council leaders say a similar scheme in Dartford have reduced fly-tipping and believe the technology sends a strong message to offenders. Residents are encouraged to report incidents through the council website or smartphone app to support enforcement efforts.

Would you like to learn more about AI, tech, and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!