Statement - Kate Badger litter prosecution

Released: 16 April 2008

“The council wants a city that we can all be proud to live and work in – which means doing everything in our power to prevent our streets being strewn with litter. This is something that residents tell us is a priority for them.

Last year we removed almost 3,000 tonnes of rubbish and fly-tipped waste from council land and the bill for street cleansing was £2.7 million. We believe that robust action should be taken against people who drop litter, which can include prosecution where they fail to accept their responsibilities.

We make no apology for taking action against those who break the law and choose to drop their waste on the floor rather than put it in a bin. We believe the vast majority of people, who were raised to believe it is wrong to drop litter, support our stance.

This matter could have been easily resolved if Ms Badger had either paid the fixed penalty notice or told us who was responsible for dropping the litter. Unfortunately she did neither and as a result of Ms Badger’s actions, the matter was referred to the crown court. Only recently did Ms Badger’s lawyers identify the person who was responsible for dropping the litter and indicate that person’s willingness to pay the fixed penalty notice. Unfortunately that commitment has not been met.

It is for this reason that our lawyers today offered no evidence in court in the case against Ms Badger. It is unfortunate that Ms Badger did not give us these details at the earliest opportunity which would have avoided any action against her or any subsequent proceedings.

Litter enforcement is only one aspect of a range of initiatives that the council uses, alongside our partners, to address the issue of the quality of the environment. We also visit schools and carry out public information campaigns.”

Issued by the press office.