There has been a persistent problem with fly-tipping by the clothes bank in Burns Avenue, at the entrance to the alleyway leading to Eliot Close.I have asked for fly-tipping to be cleared by the council several times which has been done. The problem is that more appears and the clothes bin seems to be a focal point for other rubbish to be dumped.

I have reported the latest batch of rubbish to the council and it has been acknowledged. Hopefully it will be collected soon.

But we need a better solution long-term. I have suggested that the council contact the charity and we consider alternative locations for the clothes bank. It might be better sited on Scott Avenue, and this would have the advantage of being more in public view to help prevent fly-tipping.

Fly-tipping is illegal and can result in prosecution and fines. It takes a lot of council resources to respond to and police fly-tipping – money that could be better spent on other things.

I will report back on next steps in the new year.

If you see any fly-tipping in our community, here or elsewhere, please let me know.