Skips part of the solution

THE Lib Dem hierarchy can call us “wrong” on fly-tipping as much as they like, but all the evidence – both anecdotal and statistical – points to an increasing problem with rubbish disposal (Skips failed green test, November 20). The independent audit by the Environment Agency shows that “big and nasty” incidents of fly-tipping in Islington have increased from roughly 40 to roughly 80 since skips were discontinued in 2005, with an increase in the last year particularly.
We’re disappointed therefore that Councillor Greg Foxsmith is apparently unwilling to help volunteers find a solution that would bring back the popular and much-missed skips service while addressing Islington’s waste problem in an environmentally sound way. That said, it’s reassuring to see Cllr Foxsmith has at least now admitted a “recent spate of fly-tipping involving tyres” and thereby acknowledged that there is a problem so we can move on to the more pressing matter of how to deal with it.
Overcoming fly-tipping difficulties will require broad thinking and multiple solutions. The current personalised service – while a welcome addition – is not enough on its own. When we consult with residents, they tell us that a flexible approach involving skips would indeed be beneficial. It will help us return to a point where streets are less cluttered with rubbish.
Alex Smith, Gary Heather and Jessica Asato
Labour council candidates in St George’s ward