A SCRAPYARD crammed full of decaying cars has been branded an “eyesore” by furious residents – and even the owner agrees it’s a “f***ing mess”.
Tensions between the locals and yard owner have reached boiling point, resulting in anti-social behaviour.
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North Wales police are investigating criminal damage and vandalism of the cars and have been forced to patrol the area.
The people of Chirk, a picturesque town famed for its castle, launched a petition against the motor trader who they accuse of parking his cars “recklessly”.
The petition claims: “It has become a significant obstruction for local villagers and visitors. Cars are recklessly parked anywhere, which results in reducing accessibility.”
Despite the locals’ gripes with the mess of machinery on their doorstep, North Wales police said: “We are appealing for information as we continue to investigate reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in Chirk.
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“The incidents, targeted towards a local resident’s vehicles, are increasing in the village, which has resulted in further high visibility patrols.”
Inspector Stefan Lederle urged anyone with information about those responsible to contact officers as soon as possible.
“We are continuing to receive reports of targeted criminal damage to vehicles owned by a local man,” Inspector Lederle said.
“Incidents of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage will not be tolerated and those who are responsible will be dealt with robustly once identified.
“I am asking anyone who has witnessed these incidents, or anyone with information about those involved, to make contact with us.”
The officer’s comments prompted an online backlash.
One man wrote: “Given the poor families that live by this scrapyard and the torment they are obviously suffering on a daily basis, saying ASB will not be tolerated must be an absolute insult.
“No-one wants ASB but please read the room. This whole thing needs sorting.”
The scrapyard is next to homes and on a main road used by thousands of visitors to the imposing National Trust-run castle and picturesque gardens, built during the reign of Edward I to subdue any troublesome Welsh princes.
Motor trader Paul Williams says he’s been told he’s not breaking any planning laws.
A note posted on a vandalised car read: “Your children are committing criminal damage to my vehicles and displaying threatening behaviour. What does that say about you as parents??”
He claimed youngsters “don’t give a f***” about being caught.
When asked about what he was doing with the vehicles, he replied:”It’s none of your f****** business and none of Chirk’s business.”
Mr Williams added: “There are always two sides to every story. If they think this is a f—ing mess they should look west. At least I’m not putting out pollutants. I have to live beside a wood panel manufacturer but I’m not protesting outside their gates.”
The town has a population of about 4,500.
Wrexham council have been approached for comment.
But the authority said previously : “Officers are currently looking into the complaints to establish whether any breaches of legislation have taken place.”
Locals say vehicles advertising the scrapyard have been spotted at Llangollen and Oswestry and cars have been left parked around Chirk.
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Abi Brown, 49, a neighbour, said : “It’s just getting worse and worse. It’s horrible. Chirk is a lovely place and you have this eyesore as you come into it. People heading to the castle will pass.
“Everyone is fed-up in the village.”
Jack Edwards, 23, who also lives nearby, said: “It looks awful. That’s one big eyesore.
“Kids are not helping by smashing his windows. The council need to take action and the police. It’s a nuisance for everyone.”
There used to be a plant hire business at the site.
Pat Edwards, 69, was worried about the fire risk. She said :”It’s about time something was done. It’s not a very good advert for Chirk.
“Something needs to be done before there’s a tragedy.”
Rob Jones, 52, also a local, added :”It’s not very nice. It’s a tourist area. The council should do something about it.
“There’s strong feeling in Chirk. It’s a terrible mess.
“It was diggers and then turned into scrap cars and a junk yard. It shouldn’t be allowed.”
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