I and my colleagues are aware of the terrible littering situation at Lake Meadows and I am absolutely appalled by the way some people are treating our beautiful park.
People come from far and wide to use Lake Meadows. It is a wonderful, award-winning public facility and it is outrageous that some people apparently think it acceptable to come and have a picnic or whatever and just get up and leave their packets and cans and bottles and plastic cups and other assorted detritus strewn about the place for somebody else to clean up.
Cllr Mark Thomas of Billericay Town Council has been picking up much of this litter whilst walking his dog but a job that was taking him 45 minutes was starting to take an hour and a half! This is unacceptable, it is inconsiderate, antisocial, and it will not be tolerated.
I have asked Basildon Council officers to consider increasing the rate at which rubbish bins and dog waste bins are emptied but, ultimately, that is still no excuse for the scale of littering we have seen and I have also asked officers what enforcement options are available. Maybe a few fines will focus some minds.
If should not be necessary. We all want to be able to enjoy the park and those who come after you should get to enjoy it in the same state that you did. TAKE YOUR RUBBISH HOME!
If anyone witnesses anyone fly-tipping or dumping rubbish in the park, please contact Basildon Council of 01268 533333 or report it online. You can also email me at andrew.schrader@members.basildon.gov.uk.