Leith bin fires: Watch latest blaze caught on camera as local councillors speak out against 'months of fires'

Local residents and councillors are speaking out after a series of bin fires over the weekend marks the latest in a spate that has lasted months.

This weekend saw the fire service extinguish two bin fires in the Leith Walk area.

The first was in Lorne Street at around 10.40pm on Friday and the second on the junction of Dalmeny Street and Sloan Street on Sunday at around 8pm.

According to locals in the area, this has been going on every weekend for months, with many now calling for action.

Picture credit: Tommie Travers

Councillor Rob Munn, SNP Councillor for the ward said: “I’ve been aware of this issue for a long time.

"We have been in regular contact with the police, the fire service and the council to see what action can be taken.

"I had a call with fellow councillor Susan Rae just this morning about this problem.”

Picture credit: Tommie Travers

The councillor confirmed that these fires take place usually in one night, or across a weekend, and are in a concentrated area.

He added: “It suggests a well organised individual or a group of people.

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

Local residents have also speculated that these fires are the work of one specific group of people and have called for the authorities to act.

Picture credit: Tommie Travers

Resident Tommie Travers, 32, said: “I have lived in Leith all my life, and have been deeply upset and angered by the recent spate of bin fires and antisocial behaviour on Lorne Street, and the surrounding area.

"Bins are now being purposely set on fire on a weekly basis.

"Not only is this dangerous and irresponsible, it is also a complete waste of resources, time and money for both the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Edinburgh Council.

“I’ve spoken with a few residents, and many people are pointing the blame at bored kids, and some are claiming these fires are a direct ‘protest’ at the Leith Walk tram works, which are again impacting on local jobs and livelihoods.

“Whatever the reason, these fires are completely unacceptable, irresponsible and unsafe.

“We’d like local councillors to come together to discuss ways forward in tackling these fires, and antisocial behaviour in general.

"Whilst there is likely to be a more deep-routed cause for this behaviour, we’d like to see deterrents in place; such as CCTV or a heightened police presence.”

Dr Amy McNeese-Mechan, fellow SNP Councillor commented: “It’s very concerning.

“Cllrs Rae, Munn and I are hoping to arrange a meeting with police and Scottish Fire & Rescue Service to discuss a coordinated response, but obviously we also need to enlist the support of the local community in helping to identify the individual/s perpetrating these distressing and potentially very dangerous arson attacks."

Police Scotland have been approached for comment.

Video credit: Cholo Mam

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