Setting fire to bins may cost residents £6k
Angry Craigneuk residents have hit out after it was revealed mindless yobs could cost the community almost £6000.
Last week, the Wishaw Press told how 121 bins have been set on fire in the Craigneuk and Wishawhill area within the last six months.
North Lanarkshire Council state that each bin must be replaced at a cost of £47.93 each – amounting to £5800 for residents.
Furious resident Christine McGeechan slammed those who were causing distress to the community.
She said: “It’s not fair that good people in the area have to fork out for these bins when others are causing the hassle.
“I don’t understand why anyone would want to steal a bin but if they are burning them near the old St Matthew’s Primary School there are cameras there which should pick them up.”
Ward councillor Gary O’Rorke described the incident as a disgrace.
He said: “It’s absolutely ridiculous that residents will have to foot the bill for being the victims of a crime.
“I’ve fought the corner for people in the past who have had problems similar to this and I’ll do it again.
“It’s good to see the police are looking into this too because we don’t want the area being painted in a bad light because of a few individuals.”
Sergeant William Gray, of Wishaw Police Office, said: “The thefts are becoming more and more of a problem.
“We want to make the public aware of these incidents so that they can take steps to properly secure their bins.”
A North Lanarkshire Council spokesman added: “We provide each household with the appropriate types of wheelie bins.
“Should your bin be lost or stolen a charge will be applied for a replacement with the standard wheelie bin costing £47.93.
“To report a lost or stolen bin and to order a replacement, contact Northline on 01698 403110 or visit our website at www.northlanrkshire. gov.uk.”
We want the public to take steps to properly secure their bins