Fly tippers have been condemned after waste was illegally dumped at a former opencast coal site near Patna.
Chunks of wood, two urinals, tarpaulins and scores of other waste inside black refuse bags were last week discarded at Dunstonhill opencast coal site.
The area had been undergoing an environmental re-birth of late, with work being carried out by East Ayrshire Council and its partner agencies to restore the abandoned site.
However, the area has now suffered a set-back with reports of waste being dumped.
One environmental campaigner who brought the issue to the attention of Ayrshire Live said: “This is more than just an unsightly nuisance, it’s a real scourge.
“It spoils the enjoyment of the area for the many walkers who use the paths around and through the site.
“I personally cleared two large areas of rubbish and had the bags taken away, but this latest fly tipping is more industrial.
“Included in the waste are two urinals and other toilet items, pointing to this coming from a pub, club or similar building undergoing a refit.
“I have reported this to East Ayrshire Council's Environmental Crime department and I understand they are investigating. I have also notified the police.”
Last autumn the EAC Coalfields Environmental Initiative seeded huge areas of the site above the lochan with wildflowers in order to produce a transformative impact to those coming to the site this year.
In addition, a viewing plate was installed highlighting points of interest like Ben Lomond.
And with wildlife making a welcome appearance at Dunstonhill such as deer, foxes, hares and several species of birds, campaigners have been left dismayed by this latest dumping of waste.
Another environmentalist said: “When you think of all of the hard work that’s gone in to make the site better for the public, it makes the instances of fly tipping here so reprehensible.”
An East Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: "If you see someone fly tipping within East Ayrshire please report it online to the Council’s Corporate Enforcement Unit with as much detail as you can. The CEU can then investigate the waste and work to identify the culprit.
“Fly tipping is an environmental crime; it can lead to a criminal conviction and a maximum fine of £40,000. Where fly tipping involves the use of a vehicle, the driver can be prosecuted, along with the owner of the vehicle. The police also have powers to seize vehicles used for fly tipping.
“Fly tipping is the scourge of our countryside the length and breadth of Scotland. In East Ayrshire, we are taking a strong line against offenders who choose to fly tip waste. We will use all powers at our disposal to tackle fly tipping."
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