This street has been branded one of Scotland's dirtiest areas

The Provost of Falkirk, Billy Buchanan, is calling for someone to clean up what he says is one of Scotland's dirtiest areas.

The Provost, who is also the local councillor for Bonnybridge, says it is time something was done about the mess behind flats and shops at Bonnybridge Toll, just off the village's high street.

He said: "I believe it is of the filthiest areas in Scotland.

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"The place is over run by rats who have a natural play area coming from the Bonny Water.

The Provost says he has been trying to get the area cleaned up for years and has even gone down himself a few times with some bin bags and was appalled to see huge rats crawling about the scene.

"I have been down before with the environmental health team and they did put poison down for the rats but because it is so close to the river you are always going to get rats.

"There are takeaways to the front and flats to the back and its time the tenants and owns take some kind of responsibility.

"I'm not talking about just going down with a black bag and doing a litter pick like I've done often - I was something down about it permanently."

High Street at Bonnybridge Toll next to Bonnybridge Memorial Gardens -  garden area full of rubbish and reports of being overrun with rats. Picture: Michael GillenHigh Street at Bonnybridge Toll next to Bonnybridge Memorial Gardens -  garden area full of rubbish and reports of being overrun with rats. Picture: Michael Gillen
High Street at Bonnybridge Toll next to Bonnybridge Memorial Gardens - garden area full of rubbish and reports of being overrun with rats. Picture: Michael Gillen

The Provost called for the council's environmental health department to take action.

But he says it is also important for individual residents to take some responsibility and help to clear up the mess.

A Falkirk Council spokesperson said: “Officers have visited the site and while the issue specifically relates to private property which is largely outwith our control, we have arranged for the waste to be removed.

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“A litter pick of the wider area will also take place this week and we have lettered residents to remind them of appropriate ways to dispose of waste.

Picture Michael GillenPicture Michael Gillen
Picture Michael Gillen

“We have visited the commercial premises and the area will be routinely monitored by our enforcement officers to ensure waste is being satisfactorily managed by both residents and business owners.

“Our Pest Control officers are monitoring the area for vermin and appropriate action will be taken if required.”

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