Alex Easton MLA and Cllr Janice MacArthur Welcome a Town Warden for Donaghadee and Seagull Proof Litter Bins
Alex Easton MLA and local Councillor Janice MacArthur welcome the news from Ards and North Down Borough Council that a Town Warden will be on the ground in the town until 9 pm during the months of July and August and that much needed seagull proof bins will be provided too.
Speaking earlier this week Alex Easton MLA said, ‘The problem of overflowing litter bins has been with us for some time now and with the increase in take away food together with added day visitors to Donaghadee, this has become almost a daily issue. I want to see the town of Donaghadee looking as tidy as possible for tourists and local residents but it is clear that the current provision of bins does not meet the demand. I welcome the appointment of a Town Warden during the summer months and the news that Council will install seagull proof bins to replace the inadequate rusty ones which are in situ at present’.
Councillor MacArthur said that the problem of litter overspill was one of the first issues which landed on her desk since appointment on 11 May 2020. ‘As I have said previously, local restaurant volunteers are doing a great job picking up excess litter at the end of the day, but, even during the day, especially when we have good weather, the bins are not able to cope with the increased demand. Both Alex Easton and myself had spoken with Council Officers about mobile bins but that was turned down as an option. However, we both welcome the news that the town will have a Town Warden and that the installation of seagull proof bins will help resolve the mess which the birds make.’
Both politicians would also encourage the public to dispose of their litter in bins provided or, if the bins are full to use others throughout the town. ‘We want to see our traders thrive this summer’ they said ‘without worrying that litter will be strewn across the play park and footpaths. Their business is essential for the local economy and an important part of life in Donaghadee.’
