One of Stoke-on-Trent's oldest historic sites is being targeted by fly-tippers. Hulton Abbey which is where the modern day Abbey Hulton gets its name regularly sees waste and litter discarded.

Fly-tippers target the Beard Grove entrance to the site and residents say they have seen cars pull up and leave bags of rubbish. Today suitcases, clothes, books and broken glass litter the walking path around the former abbey.

This comes despite the recent announcement at the start of the year that fines for fly-tipping have increased. Previously fly-tipping fines were £400, however now due to the increase fines for fly-tipping from a property rise to £500 and the penalty for dumping waste from a vehicle will increase to £1,000.

The national heritage monument was established in 1223, and is popular with dog walkers due to the openness of the site, the many entrances and a reasonably sized car park. The nationally important site has been identified as 'at risk', with the condition described as poor and in need of repair.

Suitcases, clothes, books and broken glass litter the walking path around the former abbey (LDRS).

Clare Micheal who was at the site and walking her dog said: "This place is lovely walking around, it's so peaceful and there is plenty of room for your dog. When you see the litter that has been left it does make you disappointed.

"Today I've seen broken glass which is worrying for everyone who comes on there and walks their dogs. People need to be more considerate."

Residents report that the site is regularly cleared of litter by a gentleman who lives nearby who bags the litter and leaves it at the bin to be collected. A Beard Grove resident said that the main problem at the moment was litter.

The resident who did not want to be named said: "There was a big issue with people coming down here and dumping rubbish but at the moment it just seems to be people dropping litter. If you walk around you will see litter everywhere.

"The problem is how do you stop people from doing it? I've seen people just pull up and leave bags of rubbish at the gate. All it takes is some wind and it's blown all over the place."

Stoke-on-Trent City Council have confirmed that the dumped rubbish will now be cleared. Cllr Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement, and sustainability advised:"The city council operates a zero-tolerance approach towards waste offences and offenders can be issued on-the-spot fines up to £1,000. 

We have not received any complaints in regards to this fly-tipping, however, this has now been investigated upon receiving the information from Stoke-on-Trent Live. In all instances such as this, we appeal to residents to report fly-tipping and persons committing these offences via the My Stoke App, visiting www.stoke.gov.uk or telephoning 01782 234234. Arrangements have been made for the removal and lawful disposal of the waste."

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