'Irresponsible late-night litterers' to blame for overflowing Christchurch bins

Pictures of the litter and overflowing dog waste bins on Christchurch Quay were snapped by members of the public on Sunday evening.

But the council say the litter is being left late at night by 'irresponsible people'.

In March, Christchurch council removed the litter bins and replaced them with signs, asking people to take their rubbish home with them.

At the time, the move was criticised by residents, with questions raised over who signed off the contentious trial.

The council said environmental enforcement patrols would be stepped up, with people caught littering possibly facing a fine.

It was not stated how long the trial would last.

Since the bins were removed residents have snapped photos of dog waste bins crammed full of takeaway packets, plastic bags and other waste. Litter can also be seen strewn around the grass nearby.

Resident Nick Woodford said he had contacted the council in the past about litter issues in the town.

"It's not working", he said.

"The bins should be put back and there should be bigger ones. It would make sense if they were collected in the evening to prevent any impact on the environment.

"I have lived here all my life and the litter problem now is ten times worse than it has ever been.

"I think they need to look at a different solution; the strategy isn't working."

A spokesperson for Christchurch Borough Council said: "Most people are paying attention to our request to take their litter home and at most times the Quay is free from litter.

"Unfortunately, late at night there are obviously some people who would prefer to litter the Quay rather than take responsibility for their litter.

"We are going to continue with the trial in the hope that more and more people, as most are at the moment, take responsibility for their litter instead of expecting others to deal with it."

A report on the trial will be discussed by councillors at the policy and resources committee meeting on June 22.