Nightmare neighbour evicted after turning front garden into tip

Fed-up residents hailed the court’s decision as a victory for common sense

A nightmare neighbour who turned his front garden into a giant rubbish tip has finally been evicted from his home.

Kevin Whittle, 49, left neighbours fuming after he piled up mountains of rubbish and scrap metal in his front garden in Springwood, Huddersfield.

Despite repeated complaints to the council and police, Whittle refused to clear up the mess, which became a breeding ground for rats and flies.

Residents said the rubbish was so bad that it was affecting their quality of life.

One neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: “It was a nightmare. The smell was unbearable and the rats were getting into our gardens.

“We’re so relieved that he’s finally been evicted. It’s a victory for common sense.”

Another neighbour said: “It’s been a long time coming. We’ve been complaining to the council for years but they’ve done nothing.

“We’re just glad that it’s finally been resolved.”

Whittle was evicted from his home after Kirklees Council obtained a court order.

He has been given until the end of the month to clear up the rubbish and leave the property.

A Kirklees Council spokesperson said: “We are pleased that the court has granted us a possession order.

“We have been working with Mr Whittle for a number of years to try to resolve this issue, but unfortunately, he has not been willing to cooperate.

“We hope that this order will now allow us to take possession of the property and clear up the rubbish.

“We would like to thank the residents for their patience and support.”