A SPECIALLY constructed pit designed to rid the Forest of rotting sheep carcasses has run into a snag – users are frequently leaving it unlocked.
Local man Robin Phelps, of Yorkley Wood, says security at the pit should be of paramount importance.
"I've found it unlocked twice. There is a serious safety aspect to this as it will naturally attract the attention of youngsters. If anyone fell in they would find it impossible to escape. It is potentially very dangerous," he said.
Mr Phelps said he had twice found the padlock for the pit alongside the cover.
"There's a terrible stench from the pit but I strongly believe there is a serious risk here. It should be locked at all times," he said.
Val Long, spokesperson for Forest Enterprise, agreed with Mr Phelps – "It is lockable and it should be locked," she said.
Mrs Long said the pit – alongside the Parkend road from Yorkley – had been constructed in partnership and with joint funding by the Commoners' Association and the Forest of Dean District Council.
The proper permissions had been agreed with the Environment Agency and Trading Standards.
"It can cost as much as £50 to dispose of a carcass. There is obviously a need for this facility locally as the council and ourselves can use it for unmarked road casualties and the graziers can use it to dispose of dead sheep.
"Unfortunately it has been left unlocked a couple of times but we have had a meeting there and plans are being put in place immediately to solve the problem," she said.
"It has been found to be very difficult to lock but now the lid is being raised to make it easier to use," said Mrs Long.
"I agree with Mr Phelps about the safety issue. Provided it is locked, it is a good facility," she said.