27 NOV 2023

West Oxfordshire District Council will increase fixed penalty notices to the maximum allowed by the government to crack down on anti-social behaviour.

Crimes damaging the environment like fly-tipping and littering create an eyesore and spoil the enjoyment of outdoor spaces that residents use. By taking the fines to the maximum limit allowed, we will ensure that those who choose to continue to offend will face much tougher consequences.

Cllr Lidia Arciszewska, Executive Member for Environment, said, “Nobody likes a litter lout and there is no excuse for dumping rubbish anywhere in our beautiful district. Disposing of it in the correct place such as street bins, recycling centres or taking your waste home is the responsible thing to do. The number of fly tipping incidents between October 1 2022 and September 30 2023 was above 1100; the estimated cost of the cleanup was above £20,000 plus the waste tipping costs.

“By increasing the penalties for those caught in the act, we can deter those who consider spoiling our streets or damaging our environment. We need to do all that we can to bring offenders to account and by issuing larger fixed penalty notices, we hope to deter offenders and create a better environment for residents and wildlife”.

In West Oxfordshire, the maximum amount those caught fly-tipping could be fined will increase from £400 to £1,000. The maximum amount those who litter, or graffiti could be fined will increase from £150 to £500. The maximum amount those who breach their household waste duty of care could be fined will increase from £400 to £600. During October this year, 19 investigations were undertaken, 7 warning letters sent, and 8 fixed penalty notices issued.