September 1, 2014 2.35 pm This story is over 122 months old

Lincoln volunteers clean up Monks Road after fly tipping increase

Action LN2: More than a tonne of waste from fly tipping was cleared from the Monks Road area of Lincoln by a group of local volunteers.

More than a tonne of waste from fly tipping was cleared from the Monks Road area of Lincoln by a group of residents, cadets, councillors and officers.

As previously reported, the number of fly tipping incidents in Lincoln increased by 22% last year, costing the council and tax payers around £27,000 to clear up.

More than 40 volunteers attended the community clean up event on Saturday, August 30 to fight the problem.

Dumped items included mattresses, a printer and a football table.

The City of Lincoln Council is responsible for running regular cleansing routines to ensure communities are kept clean.

Sam Barstow, Public Protection and Anti-Social Behaviour Service Manager at the City Council, said: “We were approached by Action LN2, who were frustrated by the amount of fly tipping in their community and wanted to do something about it.

“We had a great turnout, being joined by residents, cadets and Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service as well.

“Together we collected more than a tonne of rubbish and distributed 1,000 leaflets containing information on where waste can be disposed of legally.

“I would also strongly urge people to report fly tipping, so we can gather all available evidence. Details such as registration plates can help us track down offenders.”

Wendy Taylor from Action LN2 is also a resident in the city. She said: “Hopefully the event has raised even more awareness of the problems of fly-tipping and litter in the area.

“Action LN2 will continue to organise these regular events and we would like to thank all the volunteers who supported us on the day.”

Maaike Veenkamp, Lincoln City FC Sport and Education Trust Community Organiser, added: “We ask the residents of the Monks Road area what they love about living in the area, what concerns them.

“General appearance of the area is something that comes up as a key concern for residents time and time again – bins being left out, litter on the streets and parks, fly-tipping of large items such as household furniture, and the wider impact this issue has on the neighbourhood and how it makes people feel.”

Illegal disposal of waste carries a maximum penalty of £50,000 and up to 12 months in prison.

Anyone who witnesses an incident of fly tipping can report it either by calling 01522 873378 or emailing [email protected].