Hastings District Council has forwarded several infringement notices in response to the prohibited dumping of material at the Havelock North Recycling Centre in Martin Place.

During April 2012, Council started forwarding notices in response to a marked increase in the quantity of waste being illegitimately dumped at the depot.

Martin Place only caters for recyclable packaging and does not have facilities to address trash or second hand goods.

Waste Minimisation Officer Dominic Salmon stated, “There was a fall in the number of illegal dumping incidents when the tougher stance was instituted but it looks as if the bad behaviour is on the increase again.”

Mr. Salmon also said, “Any material which is left on the verge near the bins is classed as illegal dumping as is non-recyclable material which is placed in the bins. It is also unacceptable to leave material on the verge in case someone else may find it useful. Second hand goods can be sold through website auctions, donated to charity shops or taken to the Henderson Road recycling facility for disposal.”

Accumulation around the depot undoubtedly shows that dumping of debris is illegitimate and step will be taken against those who are caught.

Council has issued 12 fines for unlawful dumping at Martin Place since Easter.

Dominic Salmon said, “What is surprising is that some people don’t appear to be taking any notice of the signs that clearly indicate that the site is monitored. Those who choose to dump their waste outside the depot are clearly taking advantage of its location in a quiet cul-de-sac and some of the culprits are brazenly dumping the material in broad daylight.”

“It is not acceptable that ratepayers have to foot the bill for cleaning up this material and we will continue to take a hard line on illegal dumping around the district,” Mr Salmon stated.