Illegal dumping and dog fouling ‘hotspots’

The UUP representative issued his warning after council’s Environmental Services department released information on the locations of reported dog fouling, littering and illegal dumping within Carrickfergus, Greenisland and Whitehead.

Mr Wilson welcomed the information which he said follows repeated requests for a hotspot analysis to be carried out in order to identify areas of concern.

He said: “This level of details is something that I have requested since late last year. It is imperative that we know where the problem is so we can act appropriately to try and sort the issues out.

“I have raised concerns about illegal dumping in the rural areas of Knockagh Road, Monument Road and the New Line, in addition to the Red Brae, and all these areas are highlighted as being the highest for reported complaints.

“The council report indicates that the New Line has had 13 incidents of illegal dumping in the past year, and that the Knockagh Road has also had eight reported incidents in the same period.

“The Shore Road, Greenisland also has eight reported incidents of illegal dumping. This shows that my repeated concerns in the council chamber are founded and that there is a problem in these areas.

“To this end, I was glad to hear that there are increased patrols in the Knockagh and New Line areas in particular.”

Mr Wilson added that this analysis will enable him to pursue the issue in the new Mid and East Antrim Council, which becomes operational on April 1 with the merger of Carrickfergus, Larne and Ballymena councils under the review of public administration.

He added: “On a more general point, litter complaints are on the rise, from 72 in 2012/13 to 115 for this financial year to date.

“Reports of dog fouling, another issue which I have spoken out about in council, seem to be on the decline, with 210 incidents reported in 2012/13, and a lesser figure of 130 for this financial year so far.

“I would urge residents to report issues that they have with dog fouling or illegal dumping in their area so we have a realistic indication of the areas that are causing concerns.

“I would also urge those who continue to use our public spaces as a dump to reconsider your irresponsible actions and stop now.”