Burnbank eyesore is ended by new fence

Apr 9 2009 by Gary Fanning, Hamilton Advertiser

A PROMINENT eyesore that has been spoiling the area around the Burnbank Centre has been cleared after complaints from fed-up residents.

Neighbours hit out after the former public toilets in Purdie Street had become a magnet for fly-tippers and litter louts.

New fencing has now been erected at the site in bid to prevent people dumping rubbish there.

Residents in the area also called for action to clean-up a gap site between Holyrood Street and Greenfield Road.

In a bid to resolve the problem, new gates have been erected at the site by the local authority.

SNP councillor Barry Douglas raised both issues with South Lanarkshire Council’s housing and technical resources and enterprise resources staff following concerns from constituents.

Yesterday (Wednesday) the Hamilton and North East councillor visited the site.

He said: “The site adjacent to a chip shop in Purdie Street has been an eyesore for a number of years and a source of concern.

“Since the site had become vacant, litter has been dumped in the area and this really detracts from the centre of Burnbank, an area that offers a good range of shops, and facilities.

“The site had also become overgrown so the new fencing will look far better than the derelict site behind it.

“The council plan to market the site for development and it is hoped in the long-term that this prominent site will be developed."

Councillor Douglas is delighted that the new gates at the gap site between Holyrood Street and Greenfield Road will prevent fly-tipping.

"Following months of negotiations with housing staff, I am pleased to see this site has now been secured by the installation of gates at Greenfield Road, whilst still allowing access for tenants, residents and bin lorries,” he said.

“The area was subject to fly-tipping on many occasions whilst I am also aware of a car being vandalised.

“I hope that this investment by the council will keep the area free of rubbish and provide additional security for tenants and residents."