Carcass decision stinks, say residents

A decision by Powys County Council to stop its carcass collection service has been called into question by a community council after a rotting badger was left near the entrance of a beauty spot for almost three weeks.

The dead animal first appeared close to the entrance of Granllyn Pool in Guilsfield earlier in April, and it was reported by several residents as well as the Community Council who were told that it would be removed.

Despite the vile smell, villagers were reluctant to remove the rotting carcass themselves due to the potential threat of TB, although one local resident managed to move it off the road and into the hedge.

After more complaints appeared on social media last night, MyWelshpool was told by Powys that: “The carcass collection service is not running as the council is focusing on business critical activities in response to Covid-19.”

While the response is understandable given the current climate, the Community Council questioned whether it is a wise one.

Chairman, Cllr Ian Harrison, said: “I find it very disappointing that Powys County Council has closed its carcass collection service, particularly given the health and safety implications of having a large rotting carcass on a busy lane used by many families out walking to improve their health. Surely they have someone in their ranks qualified to deal with this?”

THURSDAY UPDATE: Most of the carcass appears to have been moved this morning. But parts of the dead badger remain.