Ealing Council is one of the top boroughs in the country when it comes to taking action against people who drop litter.

According to new research by litter campaigners Clean Up Britain, last year the council’s enforcement teams issued more than 8,000 fines for littering, the third highest rate in the country. This was an increase of 17% from the previous year.

Cracking down on litter

When Ealing enforcement officers see someone drop any form of litter, including cigarette butts they approach the offender with their body camera turned on.

They explain who they are and highlight the offence then ask for person’s ID and issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £150. Failing to comply with the officer or giving false information is a further offence under the Environmental Protection Act. Unpaid fines can be prosecuted in magistrates court where Ealing Council has a 99% success rate.

Ealing is already leading the way when it comes to the environment, consistently being in the top three boroughs in London for high rates of recycling.

Councillor Deirdre Costigan, Ealing Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for climate action, said: “Residents in Ealing are proud of where they live and keeping our streets clean is a priority for us. We won’t let a small minority spoil things for the rest of us, so we’re pleased to be officially recognised as one of the toughest boroughs in the country when it comes to cracking down on people who drop litter.

“Fining people who drop litter goes hand in hand with our work to educate residents and visitors on the impact of these offences. We work closely with the amazing LAGERCan volunteers to make clear that everyone can play a part in helping to keep our streets clean.”

You can report a street cleaning or anti-social behaviour on council’s website.