 Families around Three Rivers could be hit with fines of up to £100 if they do not recycle their waste correctly. Three Rivers District Council announced last month that is plans to clamp down on persistent offenders by using powers handed out in 2005 to issue a higher number of fixed penalty notices to people who continue to ignore its strict rules. The declining landfill space available is a justification, according to officials, with the aim of also meeting the government’s recycling target of 50% by the year 2012. At the moment, the figure stands at 47%, one of the best in the country. The council is targeting those who contaminate recycling bins and overfill landfill containers. After being reported by an inspector, they will receive a written warning followed by a fine if they do not improve their standards. The £100 fine is higher than that handed out to shoplifters or drunks, but the offence carries the same criminal status. According to Environmental projects officer at the council, Jennie Moore, landfill space is running out and the contracts with current sites only run for the next couple of years. Those residents that have been written to have responded well in general. Watford Borough Council has stated that they do not plan to follow in the footsteps of Three Rivers, but does have the same power to fine residents if it wished to do so. Mayor Dorothy Thornhill said that until businesses and manufacturers agreed to pull their weight, there would be no added pressure on residents |
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