A FLY-TIPPING “epidemic” has left villagers feeling helpless after builders' waste was dumped overnight.

The incident occurred in Lovers Lane, off Tye Road, between Great Bentley and Aingers Green.

It is thought to have happened overnight between April 22 and 23.

Richard Keast, 58, said he has informed Tendring Council about the issue.

Gazette: Waste - The fly-tipping waste in the middle of Lover's LaneWaste - The fly-tipping waste in the middle of Lover's Lane (Image: Submitted)

He was most frustrated with the people who left the waste and believes they are not from the village but just used it as a dumping ground when they passed through.

He said: “It is just a complete eyesore, and I just don’t understand why some people are so totally selfish.

“It absolutely ruins the environment.”

Mr Keast added: “Unless you stick a CCTV up every tree, which is not very practical, it would be very difficult to catch these people.

“So, you feel helpless - these people are ruining the area where you live.”

Mr Keast said that fly-tipping had become "progressively worse" over the past three to four years, adding: "Fly-tipping is becoming something of an epidemic in this area, but this is particularly bad even by current standards". 

Gazette: Eye-sore - Resident Richard Keast also said the fly-tipping was an eye-sore that ruined the villageEye-sore - Resident Richard Keast also said the fly-tipping was an eye-sore that ruined the village (Image: Submitted)

The waste, which includes general builder’s waste such as fence panels and builders' blocks, has been partially moved from the middle of the road.

Tendring Council environment boss Mike Bush said fly-tipping waste is unacceptable behaviour that impacts local residents.

“Fly-tipping is an offence and will not be tolerated within the Tendring district,” he said.

“Tendring Council is aware of this incident and has made arrangements with our contractor to clear the waste.

“When fly-tipping occurs on council-owned land, we work to clear it as swiftly as possible, also checking for evidence of where the waste has come from and who has fly-tipped it.

“This evidence can lead to enforcement action against the offenders.

“The clearance and investigation all cost Tendring residents, which makes it particularly unacceptable.”