Thursday 15 January 2015

Fly-tipping: a blight on our coast and communities

Regular readers of these pages will know that we have a long history of reporting incidents of fly-tipping in our villages. 

Sadly this seems to be a particular problem along our coastal strip and over the years we have helped to introduce a number of measures in an attempt to tackle this blight (please see previous posts dated 3 April 2013, 18 April 2013, 23 April 2013, 7 November 2013, 17 November 2013, 12 February 2014, 10 March 2014, 22 May 2014 & 26 November 2014 for background details).

Unfortunately there were further reports at last night's PACT (Police & Communities Together) meeting of another two incidents of fly-tipping on the approach to Deneholme at Blackhall Colliery. One is at the barrier erected last year to prevent illegal access to the beach, the other at the entrance to the gardens nearby (please see images below):


Furniture dumped next to the barrier on the approach to the beach at Blackhall Colliery


The fly-tipping blackspot at the entrance to the gardens in Blackhall Colliery

Both incidents have been reported this morning with a request for collection.

As with other environmental issues (especially littering and dog fouling) fly-tipping is high on the agenda for almost everyone we talk to in the street, at public meetings or at ward surgeries. It goes without saying that we view it in a similar light and we will continue to make a priority of keeping our streets and open areas clean.

However, we are up against determined people and we need your help if we are to address this problem effectively. If you are concerned about any areas of blight in our ward please contact us in the usual way and we will arrange for collection, or another solution as appropriate. 

Alternatively, please report fly-tipping incidents direct to: 
Durham County Council on 03000 261 000.

If you are aware of anyone involved in illegal fly-tipping please contact:
Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.