THE search is on to find the culprits of what has been described as the ‘ultimate’ in flytipping.

As reported in The Gazette last week, three mobile homes were left abandoned at the roadside of the A33 between Basingstoke and Winchester.

The homes were removed last week by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, but since then, a fourth home has been left in the same spot.

On this occasion, as well as the unit being left, there was rubbish dumped at the side of the home on the roadside.

The initial incident was branded as the “ultimate” in flytipping by one resident and now Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has launched a full investigation to locate the culprit or culprits.

Cabinet member for regulatory services and the environment at the borough council, Councillor Hayley Eachus, said: “This is a major flytipping incident which we are taking very seriously.

“A full investigation to find the owner of the mobile homes, as well as the new home that has appeared, is ongoing and we would like to thank those who have come forward with information so far.

“Flytipping is a blight on our countryside and the removal of these homes has been both timely and costly, requiring specialist vehicles and a highway escort.

“It is completely unacceptable that the taxpayer should be footing the bill for this inconsiderate and illegal behaviour and we will do everything in our power to prosecute those responsible.”

The borough council said specialist equipment is needed to remove the new unit and the site will be cleared as soon as possible.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact ehteam@basingstoke.gov.uk.