Drop litter, pick up a fine – EHDC takes 14 people to court for non-payment of fine
If you drop litter in East Hampshire, you can expect to be fined – that’s the message from East Hampshire District Council after it took 14 people to court over non-payment of litter fines. Keeping the district litter free is one of the council’s top priorities. It has empowered enforcement officers with the ability to issue on-the-spot £80 fines to anyone dropping rubbish, including cigarette butts and chewing gum. Those caught littering are given two weeks to pay, with extensions offered if needed, but face a court summons if they persistently refuse.
On 6 April, EHDC prosecuted 14 people for non-payment of fines at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court. In total each individual was ordered to pay £639, consisting of an increased fine of £440, a £44 victim surcharge and £155 costs. As well as the fine each now also has a criminal record. Of this money EHDC only receives £155 to cover its court costs.
Natalie Meagher, Head of Neighbourhood Support at East Hampshire District Council, said: “Litter is a major issue for many residents of the district and we all want to live in a clean and litter-free environment. Those who litter but do not pay will be brought to court where they may have to pay much more than the £80 imposed by our litter enforcement officers and will have a criminal record. EHDC only takes people to court as a last resort. Anyone that is caught littering is given a number of opportunities to pay before we eventually take that step – but the message is simple. If you drop litter in East Hampshire then you can expect to pay a fine.”
Of the 14 people taken to court two were issued fines in Horndean, eight in Petersfield, three in Alton and one in Whitehill & Bordon.
East Hampshire District Council employs four litter enforcement officers who patrol town centres and other areas where litter has been reported as a problem. The council also provides litter enforcement for neighbouring authorities.
Each officer carries ID and a portable camera. The camera is only turned on after the offence has been committed in order to record the subsequent conversation. This is to protect both the officer and the individual and can be used as evidence in court if required. On-the-spot fines can be issued for any litter deliberately left in any public place but the officer is not allowed to take payment at that time. Payment is made subsequently to the council, either over the phone or at Penns Place, Petersfield.
People who wish to appeal against their fine, or would like more information, about the service can get in touch with EHDC on 01730 234131.
horndeanmatters 
Hi Guy, are there any plans for litter enforcement in Gales Brewery development? In particular outside the Spar shop which looks like a giant ashtray, now the car park is finally taking shape and Nash Hall is almost complete it’s a shame that inconsiderate people have to just throw fag butts and litter on the ground,
Hi Les,
One of the most irritating things about the gales car park is that it is privately owned by Linden Homes and not a Council Asset.
EHDC has powers to fine people for littering on the highway or public land, but not private property. We regularly chase Linden on the litter and they follow this up with a tidy up.
The Spar pay a ground rent to Linden for the car park and contribution to estate management so they are best placed to put some leverage on Linden to keep it tidy – by not paying their bill until they do!
But it is good to see the village centre slowly starting to look like it is coming together.
Best wishes
Guy.