We investigate complaints regarding statutory nuisances and public health matters. These include:
accumulations of rubbish in gardens, on private land and in alleyways;
rats from neighbouring premises;
filthy and verminous domestic premises;
vacant, derelict and insecure buildings;
nuisance from keeping animals/birds.
The action we take will depend on:-
(a) whether or not a Statutory Nuisance exists, or
(b) if the condition of the land is adversely affecting the amenity of the area (ie. an eyesore).
An example is an accumulation of rubbish that is prejudicial to health or interfering with the comfort and enjoyment of a neighbour's property. Food waste would come into this category as it could attract rats to an area. Inert matter such as bricks or furniture would not constitute a Statutory Nuisance, however it could affect the amenity of the area depending on its visual impact.
If an officer believes that a Statutory Nuisance does exist, an informal letter is usually sent in the first place requesting that the person responsible deals with the problem. If the nuisance continues, then a formal document called a Notice will be served on the occupier/owner of the land/property. This notice will detail the works that are required to remove the nuisance. If these works are not carried out, the City Council can carry out the works in the owner/occupiers default. The owner/occupier will then be charged for the works and any administration costs incurred.
If an officer believes a Statutory Nuisance does not exist, but that the condition of the land is adversely affecting the amenity of the area (in effect, is a serious eyesore) action can be taken using the Town and Country Planning Act. Initially an informal letter is sent to the owner/occupier of the land/property. This letter will give them 14 days to either deal with the problem or inform the officer what action is intended and the time scale. A Notice is served if the eyesore is not dealt with and, if the required works are not carried out, the City Council can carry out the works in the owner/occupiers default. The owner/occupier will then be charged for the works and any administration costs incurred.
Alleyways
Rubbish dumped in alleyways has become a widespread problem. The City Council will not automatically clear rubbish dumped in alleyways. Removal of this rubbish is the responsibility of all the occupants of the adjacent properties who have access to the alleyway, regardless of who has dumped the rubbish. If we arrange to have the rubbish removed by a private contractor, the occupants of each property that has access to the alleyway will be charged for these works and any administrative costs incurred.
The Cleansing Section provides a Bulk Collection service for the collection of bulky items that won't fit into your wheelie bin. The rubbish must be bagged or tied up and easily accessible.
If you have a complaint or query about any of the matters listed above or would like to order a bulk collection, please contact our Customer Service Line or visit the section on this website.
Relevant Legislation:
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Public Health Act 1936
Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982
Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949
Town and Country Planning Act 1990
Relevant Statistics:
From 1st April 2010 to 31st March 2011 we dealt with the following numbers of complaints:
988 accumulations of rubbish
220 rats in neighbouring premises
38 filthy and verminous premises
50 vacant, derelict and insecure buildings
16 nuisance from keeping animals and/or birds
34 nuisance from pigeons/birds
46 premises detrimental to amenity
