Camborne councillor asks locals not to put rubbish out too early after rise in mess from seagulls
Paul White wants to make people aware that they could face a fine of up to £80 if they take the bins out too soon
Last updated 6th Jul 2021
A councillor has asked people to stop putting their rubbish out too early after seeing an increase in mess caused by seagulls and warns that residents could be fined for doing so.
Paul White, Cornwall councillor for Camborne Trelowarren, said that he wanted to make people aware that they could face a fine if they put their waste out too early.
Local councils are permitted to fine people a maximum of £80 if they are causing problems but Cornwall Council has said that it always engages with residents before taking any enforcement action.
Cllr White said that there had been an increase in problems recently with seagulls attacking black bags when they were put out too early causing rubbish to be strewn across the street.
He said that some residents seemed to be putting their rubbish out days before it was due to be collected which was making the problem worse.
Cllr White said: "Rubbish is becoming a major ongoing problem in Camborne with some people putting out their rubbish for days on end. Residents concerned need to understand they cannot go on doing this and expecting someone else to clean it up.
"It is important that all residents take pride in where they live and do their bit to keep it clean and tidy as possible. Most people do the right thing but there are a few who don’t seem to care and we need to remind them that unsecured or unprotected waste is in the breach of section 46 of the Environment Protection Act so please be warned".
Councillor Paul White
Cllr White reminded people that they are responsible for their rubbish until it is collected and should take steps to protect it from animals.
He said that they should cover it with an old blanket or get a seagull proof sack from Cornwall Council.
"I would highly recommend anyone purchasing a seagull proof sack. They are on sale at Camborne Town Council (upstairs in the library) or at the One Stop Shop Dolcoath. Each bag holds about three black bags of rubbish, have a weighted base, secure velcro fastening and a tie at the back to stop them from blowing away after collection. They can be used week after week and cost only £3.50.
""If you don't want to buy one of these bags please at least cover your rubbish with a blanket, or put them in a traditional bin which will stop the rubbish being strewn across the streets and pavements of Camborne".
Cornwall Council said in a statement: "We advise householders to cover their rubbish bags with sheeting or tarpaulin, put them out in a dustbin or use a reusable protective bag. This protects them from the weather, seagulls and other animals that might damage the bags, spilling waste and littering the streets.
"Waste collections are made no earlier than 7am. We ask that people put out their rubbish on the morning of collection or if this is not possible, the night before collection. We also ask that householders remove their containers, including bins and recycling bags, as soon as possible after collections are made. This is to ensure that pavements and roads are not obstructed.
"While local authorities are permitted to issue fixed penalty notices against householders who do not comply with waste receptacle requirements, Cornwall Council will always attempt to engage with residents before enforcement action is taken.
"Seagull-proof sacks are available to purchase at several town council buildings, libraries and information services. Please call ahead to check stock levels and Covid arrangements".
You can find out where to access a seagull proof sack or any other recycling containers here.