The first images of people suspected of dropping litter have been published in an effort to help with their identification after Peterborough City Council launched a crack-down on anti-social behaviour. Once properly identified the culprits could face a fine of up to £75.

 

The scheme involves CCTV operators recording any examples of alleged littering in the city before issuing an image of the suspected offender for publication. A unique reference number along with the time and date the alleged offence took place has been attributed to each image, with a request for people to identify anybody they recognise. 

 

Peterborough City Council Leader Councillor John Peach said: "The publication of these first images demonstrates how serious we are taking this issue. There is no excuse for littering and the message is simple bin it or face being fined.

 

"There are a range of initiatives already up and running to tackle people who irresponsibly discard litter and impair the city's appearance. This innovative scheme gives us another weapon to target those who blight our city. People must realise there is simply no excuse for dropping litter."

 

Similar schemes being employed by neighbouring authorities have proved extremely successful. The amount of litter being dropped in their streets has decreased, while a large number of those people pictured have been identified and fined.

 

Councillor Graham Murphy, Cabinet member for Environment and Community Safety, said: "Eagle-eyed CCTV operators will be looking out for anybody who blights our city. We want to impress on the small minority of people who act in this anti-social way that their behaviour will not be tolerated. I hope this scheme will act as a deterrent to anybody who thinks they can get away with dropping litter on our city's streets.

 

"CCTV operators already target people for vehicle littering. This type of addition to existing practices is an excellent development of the service."

 

Peterborough city council is appealing for help in identifying the people shown, who are suspected of dropping litter in the city. If you recognise anybody pictured, please call Peterborough Direct on (01733) 747474, quoting the unique reference number relevant to the photograph. Images have also been posted on the city council's website at www.peterborough.gov.uk.