Illegal dumping is costing the ratepayer thousands

It comes as yet another load of rubbish has been dumped at Derrytrasna, the second time at Faran’s rampart since the beginning of the year.

SDLP Cllr Declan McAlinden branded it ‘a disgrace’ saying it is at the ratepayers’ cost that these eyesores must be cleaned up.

The latest incident at Faran’s Rampart saw a sofa, tyres, paint and other items strewn across marshy bogland.

Cllr McAlinden believes the dumping at this spot is by someone local and the PSNI were contacted after a van was seen leaving the area soon after the items were dumped.

It comes just weeks after a deer’s carcass was dumped on a road to Oxford Island - one of the council’s major tourism spots.

Craigavon council also condemned the latest case of illegal dumping adding that every clean-up cost ratepayers extra expense.

“This is one of many cases of illegal dumping this year with costs running into thousands of pounds so far,” said a council spokesperson.

“This irresponsible behaviour costs the council a lot of time and resource and often specialist equipment to clean up and dispose of the rubbish – which on this occasion at Derrytrasna included lorry tyres, making it an even larger task.

“Currently, the council removes rubbish that is dumped on land that is of public use or on land where the responsible party is unknown. However, they are keen to point out that there are proper channels for dealing with rubbish and the cost is minimal.

“The council has a bulky refuse collection service for larger items of household waste. This costs £5 per lift of up to three bulky household items. Council will lift a variety of furniture, white goods and garden equipment but will not lift wood, metal, DIY materials, fixtures and fittings and garden waste.

To avail of the bulky collection service or for further information call 028 3833 9031 or book online at www.craigavononline.com

Domestic customers can avail of the service although anything that is not included in this can be taken to either Newline Recycling Centre or Fairgreen Recycling Centre and disposed of free of charge. For disposal of tyres contact R4 Tyres at Seagoe Industrial Estate on 028 3833 8167.

Council would urge anyone witnessing a case of illegal dumping to contact the Council on 028 3831 2400 with details of those responsible so we can clamp down on this type of activity.