FLY-TIPPERS have been slammed for dumping rubbish next to a Greenock school.

A pile of rubbish was abandoned in Kenilworth Crescent, near to the back gate of Whinhill Primary.

Now an investigation is under way to find the culprits.

A spokesperson from Inverclyde Council said: “Bags, boxes and rubble were dumped on council land at Kenilworth Crescent.

"We have now cleared it up.

"Enforcement officers also visited the site to look for evidence about who dumped the rubbish and rubble."

A stern warning has been issued to those thinking about dumping any further rubbish across the area.

The spokesperson added: "Fly-tipping is totally unnecessary and dumb dumpers can face a £200 on the spot fine.

"If they’re convicted in court the fine can be as much as £40,000.

"We always investigate fly-tipping.

"We pursue those responsible and, where we have sufficient evidence, we push for the heaviest fines possible.

“People who have work done by builders, or gardening firms or who use a company to clear their house, are ultimately responsible for making sure any rubble, cuttings or rubbish is disposed of properly.

"If it ends up being illegally dumped, then the householder can be fined.

"This is why we always advise people to use a Trusted Trader from the list on the council’s website.

“Clearing up litter and fly tipping costs Scotland’s councils around £53million each year.

"That wasted cash would pay for around 1,700 teachers.”

To report illegal dumping, go to the Inverclyde Council website.