Resentment is growing among residents of Sudmeadow Road in Gloucester following repeated instances of fly-tipping in the area. Local residents and council officials alike have expressed concerns over the environmental and community impact of the illegal dumping, which includes hazardous materials such as asbestos.
Hempsted resident Roger Critchley reported the latest fly-tipping incident earlier this month, providing the council with details including the names and addresses of those he believes responsible. Despite his efforts and communication with local councillor Rebecca Trimnell, Mr Critchley has voiced frustration at what he considers a lack of timely action to address the problem.
“I reported it to the council along with the identities of those involved, but unfortunately, no significant steps appear to have been taken yet,” he stated. “I have raised the issue directly with the council leadership and intend to meet with council leader Jeremy Hilton, as this ongoing issue is unacceptable.”
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A Gloucester City Council spokesperson responded by apologising for the delays in waste removal and explaining the complexities involved. “Upon attending the site, our team discovered material suspected to contain asbestos. After testing confirmed its presence, the waste required removal by fully licensed specialist contractors. Such work is now scheduled, with a contractor appointed to clear the site as promptly as possible,” said the spokesperson.
They added that evidence found within the dumped rubbish will aid enforcement officers in identifying the culprits, who will face fines. “We have maintained communication with Mr Critchley to clarify the situation surrounding the waste removal delay,” the spokesperson said.
Regrettably, further fly-tipping has been reported at the same location and remains under active investigation, with the council committed to pursuing appropriate legal action against offenders.
Residents are strongly advised not to interfere with fly-tipped waste to avoid exposure to hazardous substances and to preserve evidence crucial for enforcement. The council urges anyone who encounters such waste to report it through their online system.
Cllr Rebecca Trimnell, who represents the Westgate area at both city and county levels, directly appealed to those responsible to cease illegal dumping. “Sudmeadow Road should be a safe and welcoming place for residents, not a dumping ground. This repeated offence not only harms the community’s wellbeing but also attracts vermin and damages the environment,” she commented.
She acknowledged the timing of the incidents, noting the temporary closure of Hempsted recycling centre for upgrades but emphasised that the problem predates the closure. “We must ensure this is the last time rubbish is dumped here. Our communities deserve cleaner, safer streets,” she added.
County Council leader Lisa Spivey condemned fly-tipping unequivocally. “There is no justification for illegally disposing of waste. Appropriate recycling and waste facilities are available, and all should use them. We are committed to supporting district councils in tackling this persistent issue,” she said.
Gloucester City Council is working closely with the local waste collection contractor Ubico and residents to resolve the issue as swiftly as possible, underscoring a zero-tolerance approach towards environmental crime within the community.