Bags of rubbish dumped in a Derry laneway are being examined so fines can be handed out to those responsible for the ongoing fly-tipping in the area.
The latest incident saw scores of bags containing household waste and foodstuffs discarded at the rear of homes in the lower Rosemount area, including Glasgow Terrace.
The problem has blighted the area for some time, with Derry City and Strabane District Council having successfully prosecuted a number of people in an effort to curb the illegal dumping.
However, SDLP councillor for the area, Shauna Cusack said the problem has persisted in the area, with the latest incident being one of the worst she has seen to date.
Cllr Cusack added the problem was now so bad, that some people are considering moving out of the area.
“I am constantly dealing with this issue throughout the constituency and it is particularly rife in older terraced streets which have back alleys and mews lanes,” she said.
“However when I went out to inspect this laneway in lower Rosemount following a complaint by a resident through Mark H Durkan's office, I was particularly disgusted.
“The whole laneway is a haven for attracting rats as bags of foodstuff have been unceremoniously dumped with the contents spilling out.”
Cllr Cusack said Council had no legal responsibility to clear lanes as they were private property and that the local authority regularly receivec complaints and officers worked closely with communities to address the issues raised.”
She added: “All refuse dumped in lanes will be checked for identification so that a fixed penalty notice can be issued.”
Fines of up to £2,500 can be imposed following successful prosecution.
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