Fly-tipping not linked to dump closure, insists council

The Shenley Hill Road dump, a former landfill site, shut on July 17 for around six months to allow modernisation work to begin.

But already frustrated readers have contacted the LBO with photos as they complain about incidents of fly-tipping.

Daryl Cooper said: “It looks like the closure of the Tidy Tip is already showing signs of what’s to come.

“Since Friday my walk to work has now been ruined by no less than four dumped mattresses. Three of which are in a bush in Danes Way park and the other at the back of Meadow Way.

“I dread to think of the state of Leighton Buzzard by the time it re-opens.”

An angry landowner, who we agreed not to name, added: “It has not been two weeks since the Tidy Tip closed for a six- month refurbishment and fly-tipping within the local area is already on the increase.

“I took a picture on top of Shenley Hill itself, less that two hundred yards from the tip entrance.

“The mere fact that some of this is dumped so close to the tip is because they have arrived at the Tidy Tip, seen the notice that it’s closed and got, shall we say ‘a little bit cross’ and simply left it where they can.

“It’s very clear that CBC’s comment that the people who use the tip wouldn’t fly tip is complete bunkum, as whether they want to believe it or not - it’s happening!”

“I would like to know what provisions have been made to combat this during the six month closure of the local facility.

A spokesman for Central Beds Council said its records showed there had not been increases in fly-tipping when it closed other Tidy Tips to redevelop them.

She said: “Shenley Hill Road, Meadow Way and Clipstone are unfortunately hot spots for fly-tipping and the most recent fly-tipping does not represent an increase since the closure of Leighton Buzzard Tidy Tip.

“We are acting quickly to clear these reported incidents and gather any evidence that will help us to trace the person responsible.

“Danes Way Park is managed by Leighton-Linslade Town Council and so we will be in touch with them to arrange an urgent clean up of the area.

“We are patrolling regularly and will prosecute all offenders where there is sufficient evidence. We are grateful to residents for their patience while we make improvements to the Tidy Tip and for their vigilance in reporting incidents of fly-tipping to us.

“We would like to urge residents not to be caught out by people who claim they will dispose of their waste but actually, pocket the money then fly-tip.

“It is important to understand that it’s an offence to knowingly allow waste to be fly-tipped so you could be held responsible in such cases. You should always check that the person disposing of your waste has a license.”

> If you see a fly-tip, contact the council as soon as possible by phone 0300 300 8302 or email [email protected] with your details, the location, date, time, and details of any vehicles or people involved.