Bexley Welcomes Big Decline in Abandoned Vehicles
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Abandoned cars are not only an eyesore, but can lead to car crime and car fires. |
The number of vehicles abandoned in the London Borough of Bexley, has fallen by an impressive 67.5 per cent since 2003.
Figures released by the Local Government Association show that abandoned vehicles in Bexley fell from 2,391 in 2002/03 to just 776 in 2006/7. The London Borough of Bexley can also confirm that in the first quarter of this year, a total of 27 vehicles have been removed, compared to 211 for the same period last year.
The big downturn in car dumping is welcome news for the Council, which has gone to great lengths to tackle the blight of abandoned vehicles on local streets, including free vehicle collections for local residents (provided the car is registered to them), prosecuting offenders and supplying an online form and contact telephone number to report abandoned vehicles.
The marked decline has been attributed to a combination of prompt Council action, helped by the rising value of scrap metal.
Cllr Gareth Bacon, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: "I am delighted with the decline of abandoned vehicles in the Borough. In the past people had to pay to get their old car taken away, nowadays scrap metal dealers will pay good money to take the cars away for you. This has certainly helped the situation, but the Council itself has definitely played a major role by tackling incidents of abandoned vehicles promptly.
"The Council aims to keep its streets clear of abandoned vehicles and works closely with the other agencies such as the DVLA, Police, Fire Brigade and local Housing Associations to achieve this. The removal of unwanted vehicles is not just about tackling unsightly eyesores, it also significantly reduces car crime and car fires. I wish to thank local residents who have gone to the trouble of reporting abandoned vehicles so that we can keep on top of this problem."
Anybody wishing to report an abandoned vehicle can do so by completing the online form at the Council's website on www.bexley.gov.uk/service/environ/abandonedvehicles.html or by contacting the Council on 020 8303 7777.
If a vehicle is untaxed, but is being driven regularly or in good condition, please report this to the DVLA Hotline on 08000 325202.
