Shrewsbury residents are being urged to help keep their local neighbourhoods clean and tidy after a town centre playground was hit by fly-tipping this week.
Two sacks of waste were dumped at the children’s play area at Raby Crescent on Wednesday [JULY 3]. One bag contained seat cushions, the other was stuffed with household waste and sanitary items.
Town Council officers found identifying paper work in the second bag and are now working with Shropshire Council to bring about a prosecution case.
Fly-tipping of any waste is a serious criminal offence that can carry a fine of up to £50,000 or five years in prison.
Helen Ball, Town Clerk said: “We all produce waste as part of our daily lives, whether it is at home or at our work place. Most of us dispose of it properly in a safe way but a few people choose to tip their waste and dump it on someone else’s land. Fly-tipped waste can be dangerous and hazardous to the public. This type of behaviour is inexcusable and we are calling on our residents, the majority of whom take great pride in our beautiful town, to take a stand and help keep our neighbourhoods clean and tidy by reporting any incidents.”
The fly-tipping comes just days after more than £600 worth of damage was caused to town centre floral displays.
Last week vandals ripped plants from their beds, scattered them on the road and pushed barrels into the road.
A further incident was reported today [THURS]. A man, thought to be in his 60s, was witnessed removing plants along Wyle Cop in the early hours of the morning.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Police on 101. Superintendent James Tozer, West Mercia Police Shropshire Commander, said: “This is criminal damage and the offenders face being arrested, charged and put before the courts. We are working closely with the Town Council and others to identify and trace the culprits.
“Most of the town centre, and its surrounds, are covered by CCTV and anyone committing crimes may well be captured on camera.
“I would urge people to contact Shrewsbury Police Station immediately by calling 101 if they see damage being caused. Contact us so we can investigate without delay. This type of behaviour is inexcusable and should not be tolerated.”