Illegal dumping in rural areas

Councillor Mark Baxter at Pat's Turn, Donaghcloney, where some of the illegal dumping has taken place.

Mr Baxter was contacted by a local resident who reported an incident of fly-tipping on a rural road in Donaghcloney.

The local councillor said there have been over 600 tyres dumped in secluded locations across the borough in recent weeks.

“Having been contacted by a local resident about fly-tipping on a rural road in Donacloney I contacted the council about removal,” Mr Baxter explained.

“This is a very worrying development as to date in recent weeks over 600 tyres have been dumped in secluded locations across the borough.

“This to me hints of a sinister element as we know tyres are an expensive item to dispose of in the legal manner.

“Council have been liaising with the Environment Agency due to the sheer scale of this illegal practise,” he said.

Mr Baxter also said he intends to raise the issue with the local police Area Commander.

“The people responsible have scant regard not only for the environment but also the rule of law, and are happy to create these eyesores and are seemingly happy to let us as ratepayers pick up the tab for their removal,” he added.

“I would urge anyone with any information to contact police as a matter of urgency, and a member of the PCSP I will be raising the matter with the area commander as soon as possible.”