Spalding’s problems are getting worse

A resident who has picked up rubbish dumped near his home for years is calling on the authorities to get a grip on the problem.

Jim Thackray, of South Drove, Spalding, says he has been collecting litter dropped down the dead end near his home for the past 20 years – but claims the problem has got much worse in the past two or three years.
And he believes new initiatives and job roles created by South Holland District Council have failed to address the issues.
Mr Thackray said: “This [pictured] is what I have picked up this week so far. I cannot always retrieve it all because some is thrown down the riverbank and into the river.
“I have always picked it up over the past 20 years, but over the past two or three years it has got worse and I am now seeing tin foil, small plastic bags and butt ends, probably from some sort of drugs.
“So what are the local authorities doing about this? A few more police or someone from the council riding about in the evenings may help – talking about budgets and cost is just an excuse.
“Someone could get injured if these individuals are drinking and smoking weird substances, then driving off without regard for others’ wellbeing and safety – put a cost on that.”
Mr Thackray added that he believes the previously “nice and smart” town of Spalding has gradually deteriorated, particularly the town centre and Winsover Road.
He added: “We see all these newly created positions at the council, but are they actually achieving anything and being proactive in addressing all these issues, including the disgraceful fly-tipping that takes place on all the local back roads such as Cradge Bank and South Drove?”
A spokesman for South Holland District Council said: “We would encourage members of the public to report incidents of littering/fly tipping to our customer services team in person, on 01775 761161 or via info@sholland.gov.uk and appropriate action will then be taken.
“Reports should include as much detail as possible particularly if someone has witnessed an event taking place.”