Issue - meetings

Report ES13095

Report ES13095proposed increased action to tackle Enviro Crime with a programme to supplement existing functions running from 1^st October 2013 to 31st March 2014. It was intended to publicise enforcement actions, offending individuals and punishments. Commentary highlighted the proposed activities with an indication of costs. (A proposed Enviro Crime reward scheme, expected to cost less than £2k, would be funded from the Environment Portfolio’s Street Scene and Green-space budget).

Councillor Nicholas Bennett welcomed the report, referring to instances of illegal dumping sometimes occurring in his West Wickham Ward. A resident had suggested searching footage of CCTV cameras operated by other public agencies e.g. TfL. Unfortunately, this had not been possible with TfL given issues over co-operation. These were briefly outlined. Nevertheless, Officers were prepared to explore further. Councillor Bennett felt that it should be possible for public bodies to co-operate in this way.

Reference was made to the value of input from residents and Safer Neighbourhood Teams. When an area had been leafleted about illegal dumping, offending had often ceased. Reference was also made to the proposed reward scheme for reporting Enviro Crime leading to successful prosecution. 

Councillor Auld was interested to know how it was possible to assess value for money in enforcement against dog fouling. In response, intelligence from Street Services (of where offences were regularly occurring) and the issue of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) were cited as two indicators. Councillor Bennett suggested action against dog owners allowing their dogs to walk off lead along the street. 

Dr Hadley suggested that officers might wish to address the Federation of Resident Associations to outline the proposed enforcement approach including the proposed reward scheme.

RESOLVED that the Portfolio Holder be recommended to agree:

(1)  the increased enforcement activity outlined at paragraphs 3.7 to 3.25 of Report ES13095; and 

(2)  to allocate £20K from the Safer Neighbourhood Development Grant budget to fund the additional enforcement activity.