A RECORD number of fixed penalty notices has been issued by Craven District Council in its crackdown on environmental crime.

Last autumn, the council launched its Operation: Cleaner Craven campaign, with a zero tolerance to littering, fly tipping and failing to clean up after dogs.

A number of surveillance cameras were installed at problem spots, and in the three months up to June, a total of 19 enforcement actions, including fixed penalty notices, have been issued.

Wyn Ashton, the council's environmental services and housing manager, said: “These fines show that the council takes environmental crime very seriously.

“It can be difficult to prosecute those irresponsible members of the public who choose to litter, fly-tip or leave dog mess on the streets, but we are making a huge effort to crack down on these people who spoil our environment in Craven."

He added that the installation of cameras was helping to catch culprits in the act and provide the council with sufficient evidence for a successful prosecution.

“Residents can also help us by keeping a look-out for people committing environmental crime and reporting incidents by calling us or via our website at: cravendc.gov.uk.”

Fines were issued for a range of offences in the last three months including failing to clear up dog mess, littering offences and smoking in a place where it is banned.

In the same period last year, only six enforcement actions were taken.

Fixed penalty notices range in amounts from £50 to £400 dependent upon the offence with an option to reduce the fixed penalty if paid early.

Failure to pay a fixed penalty will result in the council taking a prosecution against the offender.

For high level offences or persistent offenders court action will be taken. The penalties for these offences can vary but do include unlimited fines and up to 12 months in prison. There are a number of fly-tipping and other waste related offences which are currently under investigation.

The council says it will investigate any incidents reported to it, and where there is sufficient evidence, will take enforcement action. Incidents of environmental crime can also be reported by telephoning the council on 01756 700 600.