A Birmingham resident has issued a desperate plea for stronger enforcement as illegal dumping on Tarry Road in Alum Rock spirals out of control, severely impacting the community’s safety and well-being.
Wajid Hussain reports that massive amounts of waste are being dumped almost daily, leaving pavements blocked and posing serious health risks. The debris includes soiled nappies, discarded sofas, rotting wood, bags of soaked trash, syringes, broken sinks, mattresses, and even fridges.
“This is no longer about occasional rubbish bags,” said the 41-year-old father of three. “We are facing hazardous, large-scale dumping that endangers not just the appearance of our street, but the health and safety of residents, especially children who walk these paths every day.”
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Mr. Hussain also expressed frustration at some residents’ apparent assumption that the council will clean up after them repeatedly. He has reached out to local councillors and his MP but feels ignored and unsupported. “There’s not even a council camera or a ‘No Dumping’ sign to deter offenders,” he added.
The problem has festered for over a decade, despite calls for action.
In response, Councillor Majid Mahmood, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, emphasized the council’s commitment to tackling fly-tipping: “Fly-tipping harms our communities and is carried out by environmental criminals who disrespect our neighbourhoods. Our crews clear hundreds of reports each week, supported by neighbourhood teams working citywide.”
He added that the use of CCTV has been expanded, resulting in the seizure of 15 vehicles associated with fly-tipping offences over the past six months. The council maintains a zero-tolerance policy and will prosecute offenders whenever possible, urging residents to report illegal dumping with evidence to assist enforcement efforts.
“There are many lawful and responsible options to dispose of waste, including Household Recycling Centres and Mobile Waste Centres across the city,” Councillor Mahmood reminded residents, highlighting the shared responsibility to keep Birmingham clean and safe.