BLACKBURN with Darwen Council is looking for residents’ opinions to help guide a policy regarding the licensing of scrap metal dealers.

A new law to tackle trade in stolen scrap metal has come in to force which will give new powers to councils – and residents are being asked to steer the decision making process.

Since coming into force in December, the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 aims to stop the theft of metal which has become more widespread in the borough, in particular railway lines and churches.

All scrap dealers and motor salvage operators in Blackburn with Darwen Council will now have to apply for a licence from the council and keep records on who they buy from.

The new rules also require dealers to record the value of the metal purchased, as well as proof of the seller's identity and address, and keep the records for three years.

The consultation will end on January 31 and more information can be found at www.blackburn.gov.uk.