Issue - meetings

To consider the attached report of the Head of Regulatory Services.

The Environmental Protection Manager presented the report on Environmental Enforcement Service Delivery.

The report had sought approval from the Cabinet to continue using external contractors to provide enforcement services for environmental crime offences such as the issue of fixed penalty notices (FPNs) for littering and dog fouling. Members were advised that fly-tipping enforcement did not form part of the contract.

The Council had previously trialled the use of external contracts for a three-year period (a 12-month contract with two further 12-month extensions) and it was felt that the trial had been successful. The report sought approval to continue to deliver the service in a similar way by entering a three-year contract with the possibility of two further 12-month extensions. The service would be closely monitored by officers with regular checks on FPNs issued and income received.

The Council would use CCTV evidence where it was appropriate to do so but it had to be mindful not to use it for covert surveillance purposes. The majority of the litter fines related to cigarette butts.

Some members of the Committee expressed opposition to the principle of outsourcing the service and concern was expressed about the impact of the fines on the poorer members of the community. In response Members were advised that although the government set the £75 FPN charge, officers were aware of the financial impact of the fines and were mindful of this which is why the contract was not target based.

Members considered the merits of providing the service in-house and the potential length of the new contract.

RESOLVED:     (a) That it be recommended to Cabinet that it not proceed with implementing decision CAB73 until:

(i)            Data can be produced by officers in relation to:

·                     the performance of the pilot over the last 3 years in relation to Fixed Penalty Notices (broken down by type);

·                     enforcement costs;

·                     total income generated by the contract;

·                     the income earned by the council from the contract; and

·                     how the income has been used to make enforcement more effective

                          (b)   That the Cabinet include looking at an in-house service as one of the options.  

To consider the attached report of the Head of Regulatory Services.

Responsibility: Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regulatory Services

It was agreed:

(a)   That the continuation of enforcement services through a private contractor by entering into a 3-year concessionary contract be approved.

(b)   That the Head of Regulatory Services be authorised, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning and Regulatory Services, to take all necessary steps to award the contract.