FLY-TIPPERS who dumped tyres in Royston’s new �3.8m rail underpass have been slammed as “disgraceful”.

The items were removed by council workers after they were reported but the leader of Royston Town Council has been left outraged and also claimed it had been vandalised.

Cllr Bob Smith said: “I knew there was graffiti going up, that was a couple of weeks ago.

“It’s quite disgraceful, it is an expensive amenity for the public and if it is being abused like that it is a terrible indictment on whoever has done it.

“I’m surprised they were not picked up some of the cameras down there, I’m just disappointed - it is a sad reflection on modern society that a valuable amenity is being abused.”

The underpass connects Burns road with Green Street and was opened after a 30 year campaign to improve safety in June.

Past and present councillors descended on the site for the opening which was praised.

Construction was led by Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) and contractor Birse Rail.

Although fly-tipping can fall under the remit of North Herts District Council the Royston Rail Underpass is currently the responsibility of HCC.

A spokesman for Hertfordshire County Council said: “We are responsible for removing fly-tipped material that is causing a hazard i.e. obstructing a road or path, only on those roads that we manage.

“Fly-tipping on verge areas or other public areas are the responsibility of the local district council.

“Fly tipping on public roads impacts on everybody. It places an unacceptable financial burden on the county council and, ultimately, local taxpayers. The council has to remove and dispose of the rubbish, using funds that could otherwise be used to improve the road network.”