Teignbridge Council has defended its new powers to issue fixed penalties for littering and fly-tipping after last week's claims in this newspaper's Comment column that it is 'just another form of taxation'. The response clarifies an ongoing case about a local man fined after he threw a cigarette butt from a car window. He was spotted by a vigilant member of Teignbridge's workforce and a £50 fixed penalty fine was issued in accordance with new powers under recent environmental legislation. 'Residents tell us every day they want litter-free streets and now we have the powers to get really serious about encouraging this change,' explained Cllr Alan Connett, leader of Teignbridge Council. 'We want to work hard with local communities so action is understood and supported, and this means taking a consistent approach across the board. One cigarette stub may sound minor, but we have to deal with clearing up thousands every day. 'We will continue to tackle the large litter problems, but we cannot underestimate the importance of individual behaviour, too.' Funds raised from fixed penalty notices are re-invested in environmental projects to maintain and improve the area. 'This way, everyone wins,' Cllr Connett continued. 'If we can deter litter-dropping and fly-tipping, there will be less to clear up, reduced costs, the potential for lower council tax and, of course, a healthier and cleaner environment. 'Ultimately, we are asking people to leave nothing but footprints, fresh air and an opportunity for others to enjoy Teignbridge in its natural state.' Teignbridge continues to work with the police on anti-social behaviour issues, especially in local parks. public satisfaction surveys indicate that the situation is getting better and overall street cleanliness is improving, said Cllr Connett. this newspaper, along with others, has reported numerous community clean-up action days and special enforcement events. Teignbridge also continues to encourage the producers of fast food waste to combat their waste litter problem through scheduling staff litter picks and encouraging bin sponsorship, he said. The number of fixed penalties being issued monthly has escalated from less that 10 per month at the beginning of the year to 22 per month currently. More and more residents and visitors are using the freephone environmental hotline number 0800 7310323. Cllr Connett said: 'We now have a five-strong enforcement team patrolling the district, a 24-hour deployable clean-up blitz team, and potentially more that 120,000 extra eyes and ears through each and every resident being able to utilise the freephone hotline number to report incidents.'
