The Act provides local authorities with more powers to tackle environmental crimes – such as littering, dog fouling, graffiti, fly-tipping and waste offences – by issuing offenders with a FPN.

Over 40 of the FPNs have been issued for litter offences, which the council has adopted a zero tolerance approach on.

Edd de Coverly, the Council’s Head of Neighbourhood Services said:

"We want everyone to be aware that if they drop litter or allow their dog to foul they will be given a fixed penalty notice. If they choose not pay, we will have no alternative but to prosecute through the courts. We already have a number of cases which we are progressing in this way."

"We know from Council surveys that the people of Ashfield want cleaner streets and a better local environment. The Council’s Neighborhood Enforcement Team has received a great deal of public support for the work they are doing, but there are still a minority who chose to act irresponsibly and they will have to accept the consequences of their actions."

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For further information, please contact Maureen Eastgate on 01623 4574001.