THERE is a fly-tipping epidemic on street alleys between Faringdon Road Park and the Brunel Shopping Centre, according to residents.

Clare Danswan, who lives in the town centre, provided pictures of the blighted streets which include Chester Street, Theobald Street, Maxwell Street, as well as access routes to Canal Walk. The photos appear to show discarded syringes, packed bin liners, broken bicycles and soiled mattresses, contributing to an assortment of filth across the area.

Ms. Danswan expressed concern for the children who play in the area: “Every two weeks or so there will be rubbish dumped outside my garage. It depends on who you speak to at the council as to whether they will remove it. I shouldn’t have to pay for someone to remove it for me. If I don’t end up getting rid of this waste I might get penalised.”

A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: “We will clear fly-tipped waste on public land if it is reported to us. However, it is the responsibility of the landowner if the rubbish is left on private land. We would though like to take this opportunity to remind people of the need to dispose of their waste responsibly and in the correct manner because if fly tipping persists we will prosecute those responsible."