AN angry resident is calling for action over an alley that has long been used as a fly-tipping blackspot.

The area behind St Germain Street in Farnworth has been a magnet for rubbish for years, according to those living nearby.

Last year, a clean-up of the area was carried out by a community payback team, but the problem has since resurfaced.

Among the items that lie strewn there are sofas, mattresses and old carpets.

Karen Bebbington, whose home in Heaton Avenue is next to the alley, says she is “sick” of having rubbish dumped next to her fence.

She added: “It is disgusting, it has become a haven for rats.

“People know they can dump things there and get away with it.

“I caught someone trying to dump a settee recently.”

As the alley is unadopted, Bolton Council is not technically responsible for its upkeep and maintenance.

A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: “We understand residents’ frustrations but, as this particular section is unadopted, it is the landowners’ responsibility to keep it clean.

“Even though we are unable to clean this land ourselves, we have previously worked with our partners in the probation service, who have sent offenders taking part in the community payback scheme to clear the road.

“Whilst the road is unadopted, we take all reports of fly-tipping seriously. We investigate all reported incidents of fly-tipping and take enforcement action to find those responsible.”