'Unsightly' clothes bank criticised by councillor
Marian FairleyA clothes bank outside an Asda supermarket has been described as an "absolute disgrace".
Councillor Marian Fairley said she had been in discussions with Asda about the bank in Roseberry Square, Redcar, and hoped it would be removed.
She said people had been dumping bags outside it instead of in the deposits opening for collection by the Salvation Army.
Asda told the Local Democracy Reporting Service there was clear signage asking residents not to leave items on the ground.
The Salvation Army said members had visited on Tuesday to clear items and collections would be increased to twice a week.
"We are saddened to hear about the littering around our clothing bank and the disruption and mess," a spokesperson said.
"Our clothing bank collectors clear any fly-tipping with every collection from each site."
GoogleFairley said donations build up very quickly and "it makes the place look awful".
"It's not been a problem up to the last six months or so and then suddenly it has started to become more of an issue," she said.
"There is an argument for keeping it, but it is just the fact that is not being used properly."
An Asda spokesperson said: "We have clear signage asking residents not to leave items on the ground and arrange collections when the clothing banks become full.
"We're actively reviewing their use and thank those who use them responsibly."
