Former supermarket site in Newport becomes illegal dumping ground upsetting locals and councillors alike.
The owners have attempted cleanups, but illegal dumping persists, turning the area into a crime scene. A local councillor has described it as a community problem, especially since redevelopment plans failed after a fire. The owners have been trying to sell the site since 2016.
The councillor expressed disappointment with the private site’s condition, noting the council’s limited power to intervene. The location serves as a gateway to Newport, and motorists are confronted with the unsightly mess. Overgrown trees and scattered rubbish contribute to the poor impression.
Groups like Pride in Pill have undertaken cleanups, but this work shouldn’t solely depend on volunteers. A development plan, which includes building houses, exists, but progress has stalled. Homes remain a priority for Newport but depend on a private developer to proceed.
The hope is they will sell it soon, replacing the rubbish with much-needed homes. Residents on Evans Street, who face the mess daily, are particularly affected.
The Fear Group has stated their desire for development, citing pandemic-related delays. They’ve invested money in removing waste, but the fly-tipping continues despite their efforts. Fencing was previously stolen, and while walls and blocks now prevent vehicle access, securing the area remains a challenge.
Those dumping trash are acting illegally, and the Fear Group is actively trying to address the problem. They maintain regular communication with the city council to find solutions to the ongoing fly-tipping.
Green Party councillor James reports widespread anger over the site’s disgraceful condition. She feels that getting the council to act decisively has proven difficult, leaving nearby residents to live alongside the mess. She sympathizes with the homeowners directly affected.
She advocates for the housing development plans to proceed, urging council officers to acknowledge the seriousness of the issue. Drivers see it coming into Newport, and she stresses that most residents, who do not engage in illegal dumping, do not deserve the fly-tipping problem. She took part in cleaning it and she found nappies, toilets, and mattresses.
The city council investigates instances of illegal dumping and is collaborating with the owner to remove the accumulated rubbish. They encourage the public to report illegal dumping and monitor the area for fly-tipping. The council imposes fines for illegal dumping and welcomes any viable redevelopment ideas for the site.