An abandoned caravan in Downs Road, Hackney, has left residents concerned over its safety. According to local people, the caravan was abandoned over seven weeks ago, with rubbish within the caravan attracting vermin and posing a fire risk.
James MacDaid, Secretary of Hackney Downs User Group (HUG), is concerned that the caravan is dangerous. “There are substantial amounts of rubbish in the caravan, because it hasn’t been secured properly. Not only a fire risk, but attracting vermin, which next to a park with children is less than ideal.” He added, “It looks awful, bringing the look of the whole area down.”
Adam, another local resident, would like the caravan to be removed: “It has been there for a while. It doesn’t look nice, especially compared to the new houses – it looks like dirt.”
Hackney Council has responded that “the caravan is an ongoing case”, and it is following procedure before disposing of the vehicle, and said this will take a minimum of one month. The Council added that two inspectors had already investigated the caravan, and did not report any fire or safety risks. Another inspector is due to re-inspect the vehicle this week, taking note to investigate safety risks.
