The uk has adopted the decentralisation mantra for tackling environmental crime. Its Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act, which recently received the Royal nod, increases local authorities' powers to help undertake the clean up exercise. They can now immediately seize vehicles caught fly tipping and issue fixed penalty notices for fly posting, waste and graffiti offences. They can also retain the money collected as fines. The legislation marks the success of intense lobbying by the Local Government Association (lga) for the devolution of more powers to councils to deal with environmental crimes.
"It is essential that these new powers are backed up with funding," Councillor David Sparks, chairperson, lga environment board, said. The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs said local authorities will have more powers to tackle litter, abandoned and nuisance vehicles, dogs, noise and artificial lighting nuisance.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.