The illegal dump in Bickershaw, a village in the north of England, has become a symbol of the north-south divide, highlighting the stark contrast in how authorities respond to such issues in different regions. This mountain of rubbish, which has been left unattended for over 20 months, is not just an eyesore but also a health hazard, with residents enduring the toxic impact of organized criminal gangs' activities. The dump, located in a residential area and next to a primary school, has been on fire for nine days, causing school closures and forcing residents to stay indoors to escape the fumes. This incident has sparked a heated debate during the Makerfield byelection campaign, with candidates vying to address the issue and gain the support of local voters.
The dump's existence is a stark reminder of the neglect faced by the north, as residents compare it to the swift action taken in the south when a similar incident occurred in Oxfordshire. The Environment Agency's (EA) usual approach of pursuing criminal gangs and forcing landowners to pay for removal has been criticized for its slow response in Bickershaw. The Labour MP for Makerfield, Josh Simons, actively campaigned for the dump's clearance, and his efforts led to a government announcement that the EA would clear the site at a significant taxpayer cost. However, despite these promises, the dump remains, leaving residents frustrated and hopeful that the new candidate, Andy Burnham, will make a difference.
Burnham, the Manchester mayor, has been vocal about the dump's impact and has worked with Simons to push for its removal. He has also emphasized his role as a voice for the north and a local champion. Reform UK, on the other hand, has capitalized on the issue, portraying it as a symbol of Britain's decline under both Conservative and Labour governments. Their deputy leader, Richard Tice, announced a 'national action day' to clean up litter and tackle waste crime, but the signs of support for Reform in Bickershaw were not evident.
Locals, like Nicha Rowson and Marilyn Naylor, have expressed their hope in Burnham's ability to address the issue. They believe that his commitment to the area and his track record in Manchester make him a better candidate to tackle the north-south divide. However, the dump's persistence raises questions about the effectiveness of political promises and the ongoing struggle of communities affected by illegal waste dumping. The cost of this crime to the economy, estimated at around £1 billion annually, underscores the urgency of addressing such issues and the need for a comprehensive approach to waste management and environmental protection.
