Tackling fly-tipping at Drovers Mews

Sadly, fly-tipping, rubbish and dangerous (drug) waste can be all too common a sight in our communities. We know that vigilance and working in partnership with our residents and other community stakeholders can be key to preventing these issues from occurring. But sometimes we also learn that the design and architecture of a neighbourhood can make it more likely that people will dump waste or commit other acts of anti-social behaviour in an area. One such neighbourhood that was suffering from this was Drovers Mews in Newport.

After receiving repeated complaints of fly-tipping, drug abuse and missed refuse collections in the neighbourhood we investigated what might be causing these issues. We found that the way that the bin stores were built provided a haven for anti-social activity. We also found that bushes in close proximity to residences meant that vermin were present near homes. With this in mind, and with after full consultation with our residents, we set out a plan to redesign the bin stores and remove the bushes.

We opened up the bin stores by demolishing the walls around them. This meant fewer concealed areas for anti-social behaviour and easier access for council refuse collection crews. We also installed signage to make clear what these areas were for. We also removed the bushes which not only helped alleviate the issues with vermin, but also improved the look of Drovers Mews and allowed more natural light into the neighbourhood.

All of the works were completed by Melin’s own teams and we were very proud to be able to make such a difference to the neighbourhood. Jamie Coburn, Project Supervisor for Melin’s Reactive & Void Maintenance Team was proud of the work his team completed. He said: “It was a great team effort and a lot of thought had gone into how we tackle the issues around waste, drug use and anti-social behaviour around Drovers Mews. I would like to thank everyone who made it possible and the residents for their support and cooperation with the works.”

A working group made up of teams from across Melin continues to meet monthly to investigate and discuss solutions around fly-tipping and waste management in our communities. This important area of work will continue to be a priority as we move forward into our new merged organisation with Newport City Homes.