Memorial road to trader in Wolverhampton is plagued by fly-tippers
A road in Wolverhampton that was named after a popular and much-loved local shop owner who died, is being repeatedly targeted by “disrespectful” fly-tippers dumping rubbish.
Raj Kumar Drive, a cul-de-sac off Griffiths Drive in Ashmore Park, Wednesfield, has been plagued by constant incidents of household waste being ditched there in recent months.
The road, which runs behind a busy parade of shops, was named in memory of Mr Kumar, 52, who ran a hardware store on the estate for more than 30 years.
A Wednesfield councillor is now calling for those responsible to show some respect and have more consideration for shop owners and residents living nearby.
Councillor Phil Bateman said: “This problem is constant and it’s an issue that drags people down. It’s also very disrespectful to the memory of Raj, who was very well-respected and did so much for the community.
“Wolverhampton Homes has just cleared a load of rubbish out of the street and more has been left there again just the other day. It’s a despairing situation.
“In recent weeks we have had to remove a bed and a mattress, as well as the household rubbish that’s constantly being dumped there.”
When Mr Kumar died suddenly after collapsing in his store in August 2017, more than 2,000 people gathered at the shopping parade for an emotional remembrance service.
“It isn’t the shopkeepers, as they have made regular complaints about it. I’m guessing it’s down to just one or two thoughtless individuals, and the majority of people are very upset – and rightly so,” added Councillor Bateman.
“There are cameras at the shops, but they can’t be watched 24 hours a day. It’s shocking that people continue to litter the streets and shops in this way. It’s also costing the council a lot of money to keep taking rubbish away.
“It doesn’t do the environment any good. People should think more about where they work and live and have some consideration for others.”
Responding to Councillor Bateman’s plea on Facebook, Councillor Lynn Moran said: “WV Homes and the council’s cleansing teams are working extremely hard to keep our streets clean.
“We need members of the public to be vigilant too, so we can make sure everyone is clear about rubbish disposal before we issue a notice.”
Loretta Barber, who works as a Lollipop Lady on Wood End Road, Wednesfield, added: “I hate to see rubbish. People should be proud of where they live.
"There is a lady who walks along this road every morning picking up litter. We would all do well to take a leaf out of her book .”
