Cumbernauld's biggest landlord accused of polluting the environment

An appalled passer-by, James Appleby, intercepted the driver pouring the contents of the pots down the hole at the company’s depot in Kelvin Way, but the culprit did nothing to stop his potentially hazardous actions when he realised he had been seen.

Mr Appleby, who provided us with this photograph, said: “This has really upset me as I often walk this area with my dog and like many other dog owners I do care for the environment and wildlife in the area.

“The driver responsible showed no consideration at all as he clearly saw me starring across at him in his large van.

“I contacted Sanctuary housing head office and raised the issue but to be honest I didn't think the call handler was too bothered.

"This then prompted me to contact Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and North Lanarkshire Council’s environmental team.

"I rent a property from Sanctuary and can assure you if I or another neighbour were to go out and pour that amount of paint outside my property they would have me evicted. I'm sure Sanctuary must have some sort of policy and or procedure for the disposal of such environmental harming products. I really would like this highlighted as in this day and age it’s totally unacceptable.”

A spokesperson for SEPA confirmed: "SEPA is currently investigating a potential pollution incident in the Cumbernauld area following a report from a member of the public. We would ask the public to contact SEPA immediately if they witness any potential pollution incidents. These can be reported using our 24-hour online form at www.sepa.org.uk/report.”

NLC has also been approached for comment.

A Sanctuary spokesperson said: “We are aware of this incident, understand the concerns shared by the member of the public and are grateful to him for making contact with us.

" We are investigating to establish the exact circumstances and the subsequent actions taken by our staff to deal with the spillage.”