Fly-tipping at Wigan beauty spot an act of 'environmental sabotage'

Green campaigners have slammed a large amount of fly-tipping dumped at a beauty spot as “environmental sabotage”.

Bulky items were found discarded on Riding Lane in Ashton recently, much to the dismay of residents.

It is believed that some of the bags of rubbish have accumulated over a period of weeks. However the larger items dumped over the past week include a settee, TV, fridge and substantial quantity of bricks.

Riding Lane borders the Viridor Wood and other open green space.

A campaign group, Keep Ashton Green (KAG), is campaigning very near to Riding Lane to protect greenbelt from an industrial development proposal.

Danny Fletcher, founder of Keep Ashton Green, slammed the fly-tipping as “disappointing” and said he hoped the perpetrators are identified and action taken against them.

He said: “Fly tipping is the worst kind off mindless environmental sabotage an individual can commit.

“It is so disappointing that as Ashton residents, in their hundreds, prepare to campaign to protect greenbelt and against an unwanted industrial development, we have some who still think it’s okay to discard their unwanted items on our greenspace.”

“The Ashton volunteer group will help as much as possible to clear away the litter, we are also grateful to Wigan Council for responding to our request to remove the larger items, such a TV’s and settee.”

He added: “I hope those responsible for this fly-tipping will be found and punished to the fullest extent”.

KAG was formed by residents in January to oppose plans by developer Glenbrook for the 40-acre site, Meridan 6. The scheme would act as an extension to the South Lancs industrial estate in Ashton but residents fear it will infringe on precious green belt.

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 for your first month. Try us today by clicking here and viewing our offers ...