TESCO has axed the recycling facilities at its Northwich superstore due to persistent fly-tipping.

Earlier this week a notice was put up saying the recycling facility will no longer be available at the store.

Last month Tesco revealed it was ‘reviewing’ the recycling services at its superstore due to fly-tipping.

Despite being urged to act responsibly, offenders have continued to ‘misuse’ the facilities, and a decision has now been made to close it.

Thomas Richardson, Tesco Northwich store manager, said: “Unfortunately we’ve had to remove our recycling facilities after a prolonged period of misuse and fly-tipping.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience this causes but hope that it will resolve the ongoing issues we’ve had.”

Last month, the supermarket giant said fly-tipping at its recycling facilities was becoming ‘increasingly challenging’.

Mr Richardson said at the time: “We’re always working hard to be a good neighbour in Northwich and we provide these recycling facilities for the benefit of the local community.

“We make sure they’re cleared regularly as fly tipping has become a problem.

“It’s a shame that they’re being abused in this way and we’re having to review whether we can continue to maintain them.”

Cllr Sam Naylor, ward councillor for Winnington and Castle, said a small minority has ruined it for the majority.

He said: “I am really disappointed.

“It’s just another sad illustration of a minority who irresponsibly abuse that kind of facility that is there for the whole community.”

Cllr Naylor called for technology to be utilised to help catch those who abuse community facilities.

“People always rally against the Big Brother state,” he said

“We have the technology, automatic number plate recognition and sophisticated cameras.

“I’m not always for that but sometimes you need that to nail those who totally spoil it for the rest of us.”

The nearest alternative facilities are the Northwich household Waste Recycling Centre in Leicester Street, which has also suffered from fly-tipping in recent months following reduced opening hours.

Cllr Naylor said the issue has now been reduced as residents get used to the new opening times.

“I was down there speaking to people who work at the tip,” he said. “The way that tip is designed, they need a couple of days to reorganise everything and get everything emptied to make it safe for those who work there and those who use it.

“I think people have got used to the Northwich situation now. Obviously it will be reviewed I think, but it seems to be working okay.”