A FUMING councillor has blasted disgraceful fly-tippers for “putting others at risk” after they dumped hordes of dangerous materials.

Black bags full of rubbish and Asbestos were found discarded in a country lane between Slough Road and Turnip Lodge Lane, in Elmstead Market.

According to Gary Scott, Tendring councillor for Alresford and Elmstead Market, the road, just off of the A133, is becoming a hotspot for fly-tipping.

He has now slammed those responsible for the mindless dump for not being considerate to both the environment and those who will now have to clear it up.

Gazette:

He said: “We are seeing large amounts of fly-tipped rubbish which is causing a lot of issues, damaging the wildlife and the environment.

“During this time when we have a pandemic, it is frankly disgraceful and irresponsible.

"Council staff members who are very busy dealing with important issues will now have to deal with these dumped bags.

“I was also shocked to find loads of the Asbestos dumped in a ditch.

"It was hidden from the roadside, but I found it by accident while travelling around close to the reported dumped black bags.

“I am angry that selfish people out there have the cheek to dump this dangerous material and by then putting others at risk to have this removed from the ditch.”

Despite local authorities such as Tendring Council now having more power to tackle fly-tipping, 61,423 cases were still recorded in the East of England from 2019 to 2020.

This figure is, however, slightly less than the 67,792 incidents of fly-tipping which were recorded between 2018 and 2019.

Mr Scott is now calling for even more to be done to tackle fly-tipping.

He is also pleading with Essex County Council to reopen a former recycling centre in St Osyth which he believes could help mitigate the issue.

He added: “Over the years in West Tendring, we have seen an increase in fly-tipping and more so since Essex County Council closed Martins Farm recycling centre.

“Ever since then, we have been blighted with dumped rubbish in our beautiful countryside.

With increased housing now I think it should be at least considered to be re-opened again by the authority."

An Essex County Council spokesman has now reminded residents that other recycling centres are available across the district.

“Fly-tipping enforcement is a city, borough and district council responsibility," he said.

“Tendring residents have a choice of four Essex County Council recycling centres within the district, at Clacton, Dovercourt, Kirby-le-Soken and Lawford.”