Rats sighted by angry residents as Failsworth fly-tipping could take weeks to be shifted

Some of the rubbish that has been fly-tipped close to Wesley Street in Failsworth

Angry residents of Wesley Street in Failsworth are losing patience with Oldham Council, as an ongoing fly-tipping issue could take weeks to resolve.

Our images (above and below) of rubbish piling up in the vicinity highlight the problem faced by people in the area.

One furious resident told the Chronicle: "I've seen numerous rats, which is particularly concerning.

"I am having an issue with trying to get this large amount of fly-tipping removed.

"My complaint has been ongoing for several weeks now."

Oldham Council had initially been under fire after Wesley Street bin collections were almost a fortnight late.

However, the bins were emptied on Monday (21st) after the Chronicle contacted the council.

After seeing the pictures of the dumped rubbish, a council spokesperson said: "It seems in the pictures that the alleygates are open – residents have keys and should keep them locked.

"Also, it takes up to 20 days to clear fly-tipping once the team have investigated, due to service demand."

On her appointment as council leader in May, Cllr Arooj Shah admitted fly-tipping was an issue for the town, and extra resources were promised for the street cleaning teams.

"My first action will be to spend more money on our street cleaning team and take stronger action against those who blight our streets with fly tipping and litter," she said.

"Residents across Oldham should see that the Council has the same pride in the town that local people feel, and that we’ll go hard after anyone who doesn’t show that same respect."

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