Fines issued in council pavement bin crackdown

The council launched the scheme in response to residents' concerns about the "significant obstruction" caused by bins being left out

Derby City Council issued 24 fines during a six-month pilot scheme aimed at reducing the number of bins left out on pavements.

The Labour-run authority said it launched the scheme on nine streets in March in response to residents' concerns about the "significant obstruction" caused by bins being left out.

A Freedom of Information (FOI) request published on the council's website showed the council spent £9,176 on the initiative and gave out 299 warnings to households, in addition to fines.

Cabinet member for streetpride, parks and leisure at the council, Ndukwe Onuoha, said the results of the scheme were "highly encouraging".

The city council said it prioritised engagement and education during the pilot, before taking enforcement action.

According to the FOI, the scheme was carried out in Cooperative Street, Darby Street, Howe Street, Silverhill Road, Richardson Street, Peel Street, Westbury Street, Stockbrook Road and Stanley Street

Onuoha said: "We've listened to residents' concerns about the significant problems caused by bins being left out on pavements.

"It creates an obstruction for pedestrians, including those with mobility issues and parents with pushchairs. It can also result in overturned bins, which leads to unsightly mess and can attract vermin.

"To tackle this issue, the council launched a successful six-month pilot scheme focused on nine city streets.

"The results were highly encouraging - a 93% compliance rate was achieved by the end of the six months.

"We are currently evaluating the pilot's full findings, which will inform our future work to keep Derby's streets clean and safe."