In response to Mr Wayne Seaborn’s letter (December 8), I’d like to offer the following. I have already responded in detail to him directly, on all of the issues raised. In addition, our service manager has taken action on the specifics where appropriate.
I am therefore disappointed that, once again, he has chosen to ‘go public’ with his criticisms, before giving us time to properly respond, or address the issues raised.
There is no disputing that the littering referred to was present and needed clearing. It is a widespread problem that our small street cleansing team does constant battle with. I make no apology for repeating my constant pleas to residents to help us in this respect.
We do target high foot traffic areas, such as town centres, every day. However, with only a small team covering a very rural area like South Holland, we have to seek the assistance of the public when it comes to those areas in need of immediate attention.
Using our customer services telephone number during offices hours, or our website’s DoitOnline page at any time, members of the public can report all sorts of issues, including litter, dog fouling, fly tipping and graffiti.
Despite giving Mr Seaborn details of a working day that sees them on the road at 6am, he continues to misrepresent the working hours of our extremely hardworking collection crews.
If Mr Seaborn can start a collection round at 6am and arrive back in the depot by 1.30pm, having collected refuse, or recycling bags from up to 1,200 properties in Spalding, or 800 dwellings on a more rural and dispersed round, perhaps we should invite him to apply for a job.
Coun Roger Gambba-Jones
Portfolio holder environmental services, South Holland District Council
