A COMMUNITY group has been launched to combat fly-tipping at Saltwells Nature Reserve.

The Saltwells Clean and Green Group has been set up to harness the wave of support and affection for the beauty spot, after campaigners successfully fought off a bid to build homes on the site last year.

The move comes after 1,000 objections were logged against plans to build homes on part of the site.

Cllr Chris Barnett, who chairs the new group, said: “It’s very clear that people love Saltwells and they really came together when there was an immediate threat of bulldozers.

"What we are determined to do is harness that community spirit to help look after the site.

"Saltwells is a beautiful green oasis and a real treasure but it’ll only stay that way if we all pull together.

"Litter picking to keep on top of the problem is a vital step that people can take to show how much the nature reserve is loved."

He added: "This also sends out a clear message to fly-tippers that we have an army of people who are prepared to act and also to keep their eyes and ears open.”

The group have completed two litter picks and swung into action to clean up the fly-tipping of a truck load of rubbish into a resevoir in the reserve off Highbridge Road in Netherton.

Cllr Barnett, who represents Quarry Bank and Dudley Wood, added: “That incident of fly-tipping was shameful but I’m bowled over at the response from residents. We’ve gathered a lot of evidence as to where the litter came from that we’ve passed onto Dudley Council.

"We’d like the council’s legal team to investigate and throw the book at the culprit as a clear signal that Saltwells won’t be messed with.”

He also praised countryside wardens for helping with the group and also Dudley Council street cleaning staff who made sure the litter was quickly removed.

To find out more about the group and join up, search for 'Saltwells Clean and Green' on Facebook.