Residents caught dropping litter will face an increased fine from 1 April due to new government legislation.

New regulations come into force nationally next month which mean that the ‘lesser penalty’ – i.e. early repayment fee – cannot be less than £50, an increase from the current £40 rate. The full fixed penalty is also increasing to recognise the importance of dealing with environmental offences.

Councillors at a meeting of Erewash Borough Council’s Executive on Tuesday (20 February) are expected to send the new Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) rates to next month’s Full Council meeting with a recommendation that members approve the higher fines.

If agreed, it will mean that anyone caught dropping litter in Erewash after 1 April will be issued with a £100 FPN, an increase on the current £75 rate, with an early repayment rate of £50.

Councillor Garry Hickton, Erewash Borough Council’s Lead Member for Environment, says:

“These higher rate changes are coming into force as a result of national legislation. We do continue to support the crackdown on environmental crime and, together with our residents, work to keep Erewash clean and tidy.

“There is, of course, a clear message here – don’t drop your litter. It’s as simple as that. Dispose of your litter responsibly and you won’t be out of pocket.

Similar proposed increases in FPNs issued for other environmental crime are also expected to go to Full Council for approval, including fly posting and graffiti.

The meeting of Council Executive is at Long Eaton Town Hall on Tuesday 20 February at 10.30am.