Big clean-up after 'selfish lazy' litterers leave mess at Tettenhall Pool

Scores of families from across the city and beyond have been taking advantage of the sunshine and visiting the flagship pool in recent days.

But the popular beauty spot was left looking more akin to a rubbish tip once they had left for the evening on Tuesday.

Council workers were quick to react and had cleared the site by the time people arrived yesterday morning.

Several councillors representing the area on Wolverhampton council have hit out at the litterers.

Tettenhall Regis councillor, Jonathan Yardley, said: "The pool is a beautiful and unique place, it is the only one of its type in the country.

"It is a lovely paddling pool set in the typical English village green setting.

"However, unfortunately, there is no supervision so there ends up being days like yesterday.

"The site was carpeted with litter as if a refuse lorry had dumped its load and someone had spread it with a rake across the green."

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Councillor Wendy Thompson, who represents Tettenhall Wightwick and is leader of the council's Conservative group, added her concerns.

She said: "Litter is a real eye-sore. It is costly as well as it has to be cleaned-up by other people.

"Nobody wants to see that rubbish around, especially if there are children there.

"People should take their litter home with them or put it in the nearest bin and have a sense of responsibility.

"The council are very good about clearing it up but it comes with a cost.

"That means that money cannot be spent in other areas where it is needed."

Tettenhall Pool had been closed since Sunday after an outbreak of algae but re-opened on the hottest day of the year on Tuesday.

It had also been hit by fly larvae and needed a council clean-up but workmen broke into a sweat to make sure the popular pool was back in action.

The pool had been taped off with a sign saying the pool was 'closed for maintenance'.

But despite the warning, several youngsters took to the water as the sun blazed down.

As part of the mission to get the pool open, even crews from nearby Tettenhall fire station joined in by helping to top up the water levels.

"The purity of the water was tested before the pools were officially reopened.

Tim Clark, spokesman for City of Wolverhampton Council, said: "We're really proud of our team who worked so hard in scorching heat to get the pool reopened for people to enjoy.

"We also want to thank West Midlands Fire Service and Severn Trent for their assistance in getting the pool refilled with fresh water.

"The response from the public has been really positive and they recognise that we had no choice but to close the pool to keep people safe, but they appreciate how quickly the problem was resolved so they could enjoy the water with their families," he added.

On the litter, Mr Clark, said: "Unfortunately, there is always an increase in litter around the pool in the summer months.

"There are nine permanent bins around the pool and we install six new temporary bins as well which are all emptied daily, but some selfish and lazy people still choose to leave their rubbish on the floor.

"Our rangers litter-pick the site during the day and our cleansing teams start work very early each morning to completely clear the site of litter.

"We would urge anyone visiting the pool to please think of others and put litter in the bins provided.

"Anyone who drops litter risks ending up with an on the spot fine of £75," he added.

Tettenhall Regis councillor Udey Singh, said: "Tettenhall pool is a fantastic facility enjoyed by people of all ages.

"But we must ensure all residents who use the premises are taking any rubbish or food packaging back with them," added Councillor Singh.