Residents of Sudmeadow Road in Gloucester have expressed growing frustration over the ongoing issue of fly-tipping in their street. Hempsted local Roger Critchley raised concerns earlier this month after discovering dumped rubbish, including hazardous asbestos materials, and provided the council with names and addresses of those he believes responsible. Despite his efforts, Mr Critchley feels there has been an unsatisfactory response so far.
Gloucester City Council has acknowledged the problem and apologised for delays in clearing the waste, explaining that the presence of asbestos requires removal by specialist, licensed contractors. They confirmed that one has been appointed and the hazardous rubbish will be cleared as soon as possible.
A city council spokesperson stated: “Our team attended the site and confirmed asbestos contamination through testing. We are now taking the necessary steps with specialist contractors to safely dispose of the material. Enforcement officers have evidence that will help identify the individuals responsible, and fines will be issued accordingly.”
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Unfortunately, further fly-tipping has occurred at the same location, prompting ongoing investigations aimed at holding the culprits to account. The council has urged members of the public to report any suspected fly-tipping through their online service and to avoid disturbing dumped materials, as this could pose health risks and undermine crucial evidence.
Councillor Rebecca Trimnell, representing Westgate at both city and county levels, has appealed to those illegally dumping waste to reconsider their actions out of respect for local residents. “Sudmeadow Road should be a safe, clean, and welcoming environment, not a dumping ground for rubbish,” she said. She emphasised the detrimental effects of repeated fly-tipping, including attracting vermin, creating unpleasant odours, and harming the community’s well-being.
Cllr Trimnell noted that while the recent closure of the nearby Hempsted recycling centre for improvement works might have contributed to the rise in fly-tipping incidents, illegal dumping at this site has been an ongoing issue regardless of the centre’s status. She assured residents that the council is collaborating with Ubico and community members to resolve the situation swiftly.
Gloucestershire County Council leader Lisa Spivey also condemned fly-tipping unequivocally. “There is no excuse for illegal waste disposal. People must use appropriate waste and recycling facilities. We will continue to support efforts to discourage this behaviour and tackle environmental crime in our communities.”
The council remains committed to pursuing enforcement action against offenders, with one individual soon due to be sentenced for multiple fly-tipping offences, highlighting their determination to protect local areas from such environmental harm.