Overflowing rubbish bins and fly-tipped waste have left residents across Enfield subjected to “sickening smells” during the coronavirus outbreak, an opposition councillor has claimed.

Shadow cabinet member for environment Cllr Lindsay Rawlings called on Enfield Council to tackle the problems after receiving “far too many reports” of large amounts of dumped waste.

Photos from Chase Side and Palmers Green show large bags of rubbish left next to bins and waste strewn across a section of pavement.

Cllr Rawlings (Conservative, Town) said: “The Labour council has to make street scene a priority going forward. I am hearing far too many reports from across the borough of large amounts of waste being dumped. I’ve seen spots where as soon as one pile is cleared more is being left.

“With the hot weather, residents are being subjected to sickening smells. With children off school and people at home, they should be able to enjoy their surroundings without having to continually avoid piles of rubbish.”

The Conservatives claim the problems are being worsened because Barrowell Green Recycling Centre in Winchmore Hill is not taking its full range of items.

Barrowell Green partly reopened on May 11 to visitors with pre-booked appointments. A range of safety measures is in place at the centre to protect staff and visitors from Covid-19.

An Enfield Council spokesperson said: “In line with our neighbouring boroughs, Barrowell Green Recycling Centre reopened when it was thought safe to do so and is operating a booking system with some restrictions on what can be brought to the centre.

“We will continue to review with our contractor ways in which we can increase the materials taken to the centre whilst ensuring that the site operates efficiently and social distancing measures can be maintained.

“Enfield Council has offered a comprehensive waste and recycling service while at the same time being mindful of the health and safety of residents and staff. We have assessed the needs and requirements of our residents whilst encompassing the guidelines issued by public health bodies and the Government.”

The spokesperson pointed out that the council had continued to operate bulky waste collections during the coronavirus pandemic.

For information on Barrowell Green Recycling Centre, and to book an appointment, visit: https://new.enfield.gov.uk/services/rubbish-and-recycling/recycling-banks/#2

Information on bulky waste collections is available at: https://new.enfield.gov.uk/services/rubbish-and-recycling/bulky-rubbish/#2