Gainsborough: Residents count cost of anti-social behaviour

The couple, from Clinton Terrace, received a £75 fixed penalty notice after they swept rubbish from their yard into the alley behind their house.

The incident was reported by a local resident. In a formal interview they admitted the offence and were issued with the fixed penalty notice.

Days later, a Gainsborough man was caught failing to pick up after his dog. The resident, from Wellington Street, admitted it and was issued with a fixed penalty notice of £50.

Gaynor Allen, community officer for the council, said: “The alleys behind homes are public spaces used by other residents and it’s unacceptable to block these areas.”

“Littering, fly tipping and people leaving waste out in alleys is an on-going problem that causes issues with hygiene, rats and odour, as well as looking very unsightly and attracting further waste.”

“Apart from this it’s important the alleys are kept clear for case emergency vehicles.”

“These successful actions have been taken thanks to information given to officers by the public and show again that the council will take positive steps to address issues that affect residents,” she added.

Coun Alan Caine, who has responsibility for community safety, has worked with Lincolnshire Police to raise awareness of these issues.

He said: “We take anti-social behaviour extremely seriously and will not hesitate to take action where necessary.”

“Littering and dog fouling are unacceptable – it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep West Lindsey clean for residents and visitors alike.”

Council officers can issue £75 fixed penalty notices to anyone caught littering and £50 notices to people who do not clean up after their pets. If they are not paid, culprits face a fine at magistrates’ court of up to £2,500 for littering or £1,000 for dog fouling.

To report littering or dog fouling call 01427 676676 or visit www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/home/report