Overview

This bill amends existing laws to increase fines for littering, create a new offense for failing to clean up after a dog, and requires local authorities to provide more litter bins, particularly for chewing gum and cigarette butts.

Description

The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment (Amendment) Bill makes several key changes:

• Increased Littering Fines: The maximum fixed penalty notice for littering will rise from £80 to £100.
• Dog Fouling Offence: A new offence is created for failing to clean up dog faeces in publicly accessible areas. Exceptions exist for situations where fouling is legally permitted or with the consent of the land owner.
• Mandatory Litter Bins: Local authorities will be legally required to provide specific litter disposal units for chewing gum and cigarette litter at building entrances and public spaces. They must provide at least one bin per 100 square meters and these bins must meet certain standards (stick-resistant and fireproof). Local authorities can fund these bins through advertising or sponsorship.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to increase government spending on the provision and maintenance of litter bins. No specific figures are given in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Litterers: Will face higher fines.
• Dog owners: Will be subject to fines for failing to clean up after their dogs.
• Local authorities: Will have a legal duty to provide and maintain additional litter bins, incurring costs.
• Businesses: May be impacted by new responsibilities if they own or manage land to which the legislation applies.

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