Preston flytipping fears grow as tips remain closed

Lancashire’s 16 waste and recycling centres, including Preston, Chorley, Lancaster, Longridge and Garstang, were closed as the UK entered a national lockdown, with only essential businesses continuing to operate.

Lancashire County Council made the decision following instructions from the government for people to stay at home to help in stopping the spread of coronavirus.

The authority asked people not to leave any waste outside the recycling centres.

It warned such actions would be classed as fly-tipping and is a criminal offence for which people will be prosecuted.

On its website it said: “Clearing this waste will also take us away from performing other essential tasks at this time.”

On Friday, city park wardens at Avenham Park in Preston had to help clear dumped electrical goods.

Coun Matthew Brown, leader of Preston City Council, said: “A number of items were found fly-tipped at Avenham Park and removed by our staff immediately.

“It is extremely irresponsible of people to dispose of their waste in this way, particularly during this emergency situation when our staff are trying to continue providing essential services to the residents of our city.

He added: “We appreciate there are limited choices at the moment for bulky waste items, and would ask people to be patient while we all get through these unprecedented circumstances together.”

Other waste, including bins overflowing with nappies, was pictured dumped in the New Hall Lane area.

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