The discovery of human waste in bushes and undergrowth has led to accusations that visitors to Keswick may be using one of the town’s largest public car parks as a public convenience.
The chief suspects are camper van owners who pitch up overnight beside the Theatre by the Lake.
Keswick councillor Paul Titley said he has seen evidence of alleged camper van incontinence for himself.
“It’s absolutely disgusting,” he said. “And there is no doubt where it came from, because whoever did it has taken the time and effort to hide it under sheets of toilet paper.
“It’s clear to me that those responsible are people who park their camper vans there overnight and either can’t be bothered to go in search of a public toilet, or don’t fancy paying for the privilege.
“And I’ve heard from people who have found their pet dogs tucking into the waste. That can make the animal extremely unwell, or worse.”
According to the Kennel Club, human faeces can be home to harmful strains of bacteria.
The car park is operated by Allerdale Borough Council, which says that vehicles including cars and most single wheel short and long wheelbase campers are permitted to park overnight, if they pay the appropriate fee and comply with the other regulations.
However, no overnight sleeping is allowed in any vehicle on the car park. A spokesman said: “Our car parks team make regular visits to all parking sites across Allerdale to ensure they are being utilised correctly.
“While we have been made aware that camper vans may be making use of the car park next to the Theatre by the Lake as a place to stay overnight, when completing checks our officers have not seen any evidence that the owners of these camper vans are leaving behind rubbish or other items.”
