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Litterers may face steeper fines

Kim Cessford - 31.01.13 - pictured in the High Street is some dropped litter for the feature on littering
Kim Cessford - 31.01.13 - pictured in the High Street is some dropped litter for the feature on littering

Litter fines could be increased in Scotland as part of a new drive to tackle the problem, Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said.

Increasing the current £50 amount people have to pay in fixed penalty notices for littering and fly tipping is to be consulted on.

Mr Lochhead said he would find out if raising the fine would he “helpful”.

Scotland’s first national litter strategy is being developed, with proposals for consultation due in the summer.

The Scottish Government said it is keen to tackle the problem before the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup next year.

The recent Scottish Household Survey found about a quarter of people believe that litter is a problem in their community.

Mr Lochhead said: “I want our national litter strategy to achieve a clean, safe environment for people who live in and visit Scotland where littering is no longer acceptable. The strategy we consult on will be a package of measures to encourage people not to litter or flytip.”

Zero Waste Scotland, which works to help individuals, businesses and communities reduce waste, said the national strategy is a new opportunity to reduce litter.

“We know that the everyday problem of litter affects our streets, communities and environment. As if this wasn’t bad enough, Scotland wastes millions in clearing and cleaning this up and in lost value of discarded materials that could be recycled,” director Iain Gulland said.

“The forthcoming national strategy will be a new opportunity to address litter in a variety of ways and the delivery of Zero Waste Scotland will continue to be central to the recommendations to come.”