Issue - meetings

To receive the report on Safer and Stronger Neighbourhoods Through Appropriate Use of Our Enforcement Powers.

The Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member: Housing, Enforcement & Transport presented the report of the Director: Neighbourhood & Enforcement Services. The Council provided a range of enforcement activities over a number of service areas.

The Council’s approach for enforcement activity was to be proportionate, necessary and in the public interest. During 2022, there had been a 10% reduction in Anti-Social behaviour, a 40% reduction in fly tipping and the Council had launched a pilot of CCTV cameras in taxis.

Members stated that the schemes had made a real difference across the Borough, in particular the significant reduction in fly tipping, which had a positive impact on local environments.

RESOLVED that:

a)    The enforcement activity undertaken by Public Protection and Neighbourhood Enforcement teams during 2022 to keep residents, businesses and visitors safe be noted;

b)   The Strong Leader Decision made on 24 January 2023 approving the reduction to the early payment discount for Fixed Penalty Notices relating to fly tipping from £200 to £350 if the penalty is paid within 10 days of the notice being issue be noted;

c)    Authority be delegated to the Director: Neighbourhood & Enforcement Services, in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member: Housing, Enforcement & Transport, to review and implement changes where required to the Fixed Penalty Fines as set out in the Environmental Enforcement Fixed Penalty Notice Policy as adopted in 2017;

d)   The priority areas of focus for the year ahead as outlined in the report be approved.