A WORLD Heritage Site in Kent has been slammed as ‘unkempt” and “uncared for” by its residents.
Tourism hotspot Canterbury has become subject to litter and rubbish along the streets, causing concerns for those living nearby.
The level of tourism in Canterbury faced a 10% increase since 2023, which may have exacerbated the level of waste on the streets.
Oaten Hill and South Canterbury Association (OHSCA) have raised concerns about how their cherished city is starting to look neglected.
OHSCA member Helly Langley, 74, expressed frustration at how the responsibility of litter picking seems to be on the residents rather than the council.
She said: ” If it’s not done by us, then it doesn’t get done.
“We feel Canterbury has become increasingly shabby and neglected, particularly in relation to some of the other local towns and Cathedral cities.
“The fact that it’s looking unkempt and uncared for is very concerning.”
As tourism rises, Langley is disconcerted about the number of people sitting, drinking, and ‘chucking litter’ around a preserved area.
This certainly wouldn’t be the first time boozy Brits have caused disruption when holidaymaking.
Canterbury Cathedral is said to be the spiritual head of the Church of England, marking it as a World Heritage Site.
This puts it under legal protection by UNESCO due to it’s cultural significance.
However, locals believe it is not being kept up to the same standard as other heritage sites, like Bath or Durham, and are criticising Canterbury authorities.
A spokesperson from Canterbury Council disagreed with the city’s ‘alleged grimyness’ and stated the authoritative body responds appropriately to untidiness.
They said: “We believe our public areas, parks and gardens are well cared for and, working with the Canterbury BID team, a lot of hard work goes into this.
“If a problem such as litter build up occurs then we welcome reports so we can resolve it swiftly. Naturally we want the city to look the very best it can and this will always be a priority for us.”
Lambeth
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Gorleston on Sea
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Sandown
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Swindon
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Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
This council in Dorset received a 98.69 per cent increase in complaints since 2016 according to the Local Government Ombudsman, making it top of the list.
Litter picking isn’t the only task OHSCA have requested, who have stated the trees also need trimming.
The community-based association is demanding a greener, cleaner look.
Without change on their unclean streets they believe the mess could lead to anti-social behaviour.
Residents wants more to be done to honour the city’s rich background and and historical landmarks, with it’s World Heritage Site status playing a greater factor in council decisions.
