See the shocking extent of flytipping at former Duncan House site

The former Duncan House site in South Shields has become a dumping ground for flytippers with residents reporting sightings of rats nearby.
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Piles of rubbish have built up on the empty land off Claypath Lane in Crossgate, sparking concerns from residents who fear the situation is getting worse.

The site was formerly home to Duncan House, which was demolished in November 2012, and since then the land has remained empty.

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Built at the cost of £750,000, it was opened in 1975, and, during its later years, served as head office for Safeway and Morrisons.

Flytipping on the former site of Duncan House at Crossgate.Flytipping on the former site of Duncan House at Crossgate.
Flytipping on the former site of Duncan House at Crossgate.

But over the last three months flytippers have taken advantage of the empty space and used it as a place to dump rubbish.

Shocking photos show the extent of the flytipping with piles of building materials, plastics and cardboard left strewn across the site.

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A concerned resident said: “The situation appears to be worsening and the site is smelling.

Flytipping on the empty land at Crossgate.Flytipping on the empty land at Crossgate.
Flytipping on the empty land at Crossgate.

"I am particularly concerned as recently I found a dead rat on the street not far from the site.”

Landowner Mr Mordew did not want to comment on the issue, but South Tyneside Council have confirmed that the site will be cleared and secured.

The council also confirmed that hazardous materials are not believed to be on the site.

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A South Tyneside Council spokeswoman said: “We have been in contact with the private land owner who is aware and has assured us that the site will be cleared and secured.”

Piles of rubbish are strewn across the empty land at Crossgate.Piles of rubbish are strewn across the empty land at Crossgate.
Piles of rubbish are strewn across the empty land at Crossgate.

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