Residents 'deeply concerned' over 'deteriorating trailers' dumped in north Shropshire laybys five months ago launch petition
Residents, frustrated with delays in removing trailers that have been abandoned in laybys, have launched a petition demanding their removal.
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A petition, started by Iana Jacobson, is appealing for Shropshire Council to step in and remove trailers that have been abandoned in laybys along the A53 and A41.
According to Iana, the three 40-foot trailers have been in the laybys since September 2024 and are deteriorating - posing a risk to the environment and motorists.
At least one of the trailers along the A53, between Tern Hill and Market Drayton, was captured by a Google Streetview car in November 2024.
Iana wrote: "The trailers are breaking apart due to harsh winter conditions, with panels hanging off dangerously. One refrigerated trailer has a missing roof, exposing insulation and potentially hazardous materials.
"Given that one of the trailers is a refrigerated unit, there is concern over possible gas leaks or other hazardous emissions. The presence of these abandoned trailers along major routes increases the risk of accidents, endangering motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike."
Despite the issue being reported, Iana claimed "no authority has taken responsibility for their removal".
The petition, which has been signed by 100 people since it was launched on Tuesday, February 18, continues: "We are deeply concerned about our safety and demand immediate action".
Shropshire Council has confirmed there was an ongoing investigation into the trailers, involving West Mercia Police and the Environment Agency.
A spokesperson for the council said: "We’re aware of the presence of trailers alongside the A53 but we’re unable to comment further at this stage as there is an ongoing criminal investigation by West Mercia Police and the Environment Agency, and the council is awaiting the outcome of that investigation."
West Mercia Police simply confirmed the investigation was "ongoing".
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said they were investigating the "illegal dumping of waste" along with similar cases around the Midlands.
They added: “Anyone with information is urged to contact our 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60 (24hrs), or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”
