Fly-tippers targeting Fife beauty spots

Irresponsible members of the public have dumped at least five large loads of household and builders’ rubbish at the picturesque Falkland Hill in the last month, while old tyres and waste motor parts have been dumped at Carigmead car park at East Lomond Hill, leaving environmental agency groups with the unenviable task and cost of clearing up.

The latest incident at Falkland Hill was reported to Fife Coast and Countryside Trust on Thursday, after German tourists camping in the area were woken by the sound of people unloading a vehicle at around 3am.

The problem is now stretching the Trust’s resources and becoming a problem for staff, Robbie Blyth, coastal team leader, told the Gazette.

“We have a fantastic, varied and attractive countryside which is being spoilt by a tiny minority of irresponsible individuals,” said Mr Blyth.

“Not only is it unacceptable behaviour, it is also a health hazard and is potentially very damaging to the surrounding environment.”

Sofas, a mattress and even an old bath have recently been dumped at the roadside, while domestic rubbish, thought to have been from a house clearance, has also been tipped.

“We are working alongside Fife Council’s environmental officers and police to see if we can identify the culprits,” said Mr Blyth.

“Because of the growing problem we are calling on the public to be vigilant, but would stress not to approach anyone they see fly-tipping. If they see it in progress please note the vehicle registration and report it immediately.

“It’s almost certain those responsible are local to the area and we will do all we can to prevent this continuing.”