Leith bin fires: Emergency services team up with local authorities after spate of bin fires across Leith

After a spate of almost 30 bin fires, emergency services have teamed up with local authorities to patrol the Leith Walk area of the city.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

McDonald Road Fire Station has dealt with 28 separate bin fire incidents in the area since August, causing concern to local residents and councillors alike.

Patrols were organised, maintaining social distancing, in the run up to Bonfire Night and focused on Iona Street and the surrounding area.

Read More
A young dad left fighting for his life after being stabbed in the spine is back ...
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Councillor Rob Munn, SNP Councillor for the ward has spoken previous about the fires saying: “I’ve been aware of this issue for a long time.

"It creates a dangerous environment and is not good for residents.”

One weekend alone saw fires in both Dalmeny Street and Lorne Street, with local residents saying there is barely a weekend that passes that they don’t see the fire service dealing with a blaze in the area.

Station Commander John Bruton said:"It was really important to join with partners, including our own fire investigation unit, in Leith to make our presence felt ahead of bonfire night.

Picture credit: Tommie TraversPicture credit: Tommie Travers
Picture credit: Tommie Travers
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Local residents can be assured that we are aware of their concerns, but we also want those responsible for these fires to know that we are working with police to identify them."

Leith Inspector Colin Fordyce added: "We're aware of the concerns in the local community about deliberate fire raisings and conducted patrols with partners as part of our efforts to crack down on anti-social behaviour and criminal activity in the area.

"Wilful fire raisings can have potentially devastating consequences and this behaviour will not be tolerated."

A message from the Editor:Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by Coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.