Hundreds of “proactive” patrols have been conducted at Renfrewshire’s fly-tipping hotspots in recent months as a task force continues its work to stop illegal dumping at the source.

A total of 520 visits to identified problem areas have taken place from May to July – with 378 reports investigated by the council’s bespoke unit in that time.

Just under 50 tonnes of fly-tipping was removed in the three-month period, while 22 fixed penalty notices were issued to those responsible.

Councillor Kenny MacLaren, an SNP representative for Paisley Northwest, has urged the local authority to continue clamping down on the behaviour in the area.

He said: “We need to keep hammering those responsible for fly-tipping with the £500 fine so it seeps in just how serious it is.

“We should also be publicly shaming companies who believe that it is acceptable.”

A breakdown of the task force’s data was included in a report to Tuesday’s communities and housing policy board.

The paper, authored by Gordon McNeil, director of environment, housing and infrastructure, said: “Relocated cameras have been successful in securing evidence in three fly-tipping cases since May.

“An additional three fly-tipping hotspots have been secured with preventative measures blocking access through support from the environmental task force.

“One site, operated by a private organisation, has erected fencing, the remaining two, one of which is Tannahill Road in Ferguslie, have blocked access as such reducing instances in these areas.

“The list of identified hotspots patrolled by the task force is updated and amended according to reported incidents, patterns and trends.

“Hotspot areas receive additional attention from the taskforce through patrols, the installation of cameras where appropriate and awareness raised with local people who visit, work or live in the area.

“Hotspot locations include areas surrounding Gleniffer Braes which are currently receiving additional attention.”

If someone is caught fly-tipping they could face a fixed penalty notice of £500 or, if taken to court, a fine of up to £40,000 or even imprisonment.