Statement by TUV Cllr Donna Anderson:
“Residents living in Queen Street are concerned that the ongoing rise of irresponsible dumping is becoming a safety concern.
“The escalation of littering can be seen around the back alleys of groups of houses. With the back alley being the only escape route for some in the case of a fire, it poses a risk to health and safety.
“The serious litter problem also compromises the sanitation of the area and has the potential to attract rats and other vermin which could easily find a way into residents homes leading to further distress.
“Those responsible for committing such antisocial behaviour need to question what they are doing as the risk they are creating is great while the fix is very simple – pick it up and bin it.
“These incidents have been reported to Ballymena Borough Council who have said they will investigate the issue. I have also raised the issue with the PSNI as public littering is an offence. I am hopeful that the matter will be taken seriously and the culprits caught before this problem escalates even further.”