Asbestos among items dumped by fly-tippers

That was the warning from Ballymoney Borough Council's Environmental Warden Karen Mitchell following four such incidents in the area in recent weeks.

Among the items thoughtlessly thrown at the roadside were sheets of potentially deadly asbestos which can cause cancer.

"Over the past week we have had four complaints regarding fly tipping on Conagher Road," said Mrs Mitchell.

"Approximately 12 sheets of asbestos of varying sizes were deposited at one of the entrances to the Benvardin estate.

"This is deemed to be a special waste which requires specialist removal.

"There are a number of companies which perform this removal service details of which are contained in the Yellow Pages."

There was also a number of cardboard boxes and empty paint tins deposited at the entrance to a field blocking a local farmer's access as well as approximately 12 black plastic bin liners full of food waste .

These bags contained a large number of blue plastic bags full of fast food type waste, a large quantity of order numbers, empty tins, empty fish boxes, carry out cartons, some newspapers and other items of packaging synonymous with perhaps a restaurant/fast food outlet.

A large white hessian type bag full of letters and other documents led council workers to one of the culprits.

"A number of lines of enquiry are currently being followed," said Mrs Mitchell.

"These incidents highlight what seems to be an ongoing trait by some members of the public who seem to have a blatant disregard for their environment and other people's property.

"Such incidents will be investigated fully and no stone will be left unturned in a bid to identify the perpetrators.

"In relation to the deposit of waste by businesses, they have a duty of care in relation to their waste.

"This comes under the duty of care regulations (The controlled Waste (Duty of care) Regulations (Northern Ireland), (The 2002 Regulations).

"Conagher Road among others within the borough will be heavily monitored and those persons detected offending will receive Fixed Penalties, non payment of which will result in the matter being referred to court.

"I would ask your readers if they have any information on any of the above incidents to contact me on 02827660257. Details of callers will be kept confidential."