Millport: Overflowing litter sparks calls for seagull-proof bins

Islanders were confronted with litter strewn across various areas of the usually scenic seafront's pavements last weekend after a busy day in Millport.

Now calls have been made for disposal units with improved capacity which have been installed along Largs seafront and are vermin proof to be introduced to the island.

Resident Scott Maclaren wrote to all the local councillors in the North Coast and Cumbrae ward and highlighted the problem.

He said: "Last year, we were promised ’Gull-Proof’ bins but nothing happened.

"There isn’t enough bin capacity at key choke-points in the town around businesses and cafes, and they aren’t being emptied.

Overflowing bin near pier last weekend (Image: Scott Maclaren)

"By and large, the public are trying to dispose of their refuse responsibly, but there simply isn’t enough capacity, and they aren’t being emptied.

"I’m curious to understand how this aligns with NAC’s much vaunted environmental policies?"

Scott added that Largs is well looked after, with a number of vermin proofed bins - and asked: "When does Millport get parity?"

Independent councillor Ian Murdoch told the News that the photos of the overflowing bins were because of another issue.

He said: "Last Saturday there was no twilight shift on of the local Streetscene team of North Ayrshire Council - and I have raised it with the local authority. It was exeptionally busy and the bins were overflowing.

"They will eventually be upgraded.

"As much as I want this to happen you can only work with the budget you have got. The vermin proof bins will come but it all depends on the council budget.

"I have been assured there will be twilight shifts on when necessary from now on as long as operatives are available but I have been assured they will be on."

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “Streetscene have been working closely with the elected members for Millport and have recently purchased a selection of larger-capacity bins for the island.

“We anticipate that these works will be completed prior to the holiday period commencing. “A delivery of temporary bins have been delivered and will be distributed to

various problematic areas to enable members of the public to act responsibly and to help alleviate the burden on existing assets.

“A joint service meeting has been scheduled to identify a long-term solution to the littering issues on Millport. This will not only evaluate the capacity and location of bins but will also include enforcement activities, educational visits to local businesses and a campaign to encourage visitors to act responsibly."