Tewkesbury Residents Risk Fines for Leaving Bins on Streets
Residents in the affluent town of Tewkesbury, located near the Cotswolds, could soon face financial penalties for failing to remove their wheelie bins from public streets. This initiative stems from concerns raised by the Tewkesbury Civic Society, which argues that "bin blight" is negatively impacting the town's historic conservation area.
Impact on Property Values and Tourism
The society claims that bins left out after collection reduce property values, create an unsightly appearance, and obstruct pathways for wheelchair users and parents with prams. Additionally, they assert that the bins deter tourists from capturing picturesque photos of the market town, potentially harming local business and tourism.
Alan Purkiss, Chair of the Tewkesbury Civic Society, emphasized that the conservation area is being "severely degraded" by domestic bins. He expressed confidence that property values, inward investment, business, and tourism are all adversely affected. Purkiss highlighted accessibility issues, noting that narrow alleys become impassable due to bins, and some residents have threatened to leave the area because of the visual blight.
Community Reactions and Proposed Measures
A six-month pilot scheme is proposed, starting with written warnings for households that repeatedly leave bins out. Enforcement fines would only be considered as a last resort after this initial phase. Councillor Murray Stewart, lead member for environmental services at Tewkesbury Borough Council, stated that the council will first work with residents to understand challenges and provide support and education.
Local opinions are divided. Resident Angela Hanbury, 65, supports the move, citing bins that remain out for days, emit odors in summer, and detract from the town's cleanliness. In contrast, Kamila Pavlova, a 45-year-old doctor, calls the proposal "nonsense," explaining that work schedules make it difficult for her to retrieve bins promptly.
Future Steps and Considerations
The final decision on implementing fines will depend on a fully costed plan submitted to the full council. Purkiss compared potential fines to existing penalties for offenses like spitting or littering, framing it as a measure to maintain community standards. The council aims to balance enforcement with resident support, ensuring the historic charm and accessibility of Tewkesbury are preserved for all.
