Noisy neighbours, illegal street traders and flyposters in London will face being issued with fixed penalties from July under new powers for the capital’s boroughs to crackdown on anti-social behaviour.
From July 1 residents continually blighting the lives of their neighbours with very loud music or other noise nuisances could receive a £100 fixed penalty. Businesses annoying residents with unhealthy fumes, smells and excessive noise could receive a £400 penalty.
People illegally putting up posters to advertise any events, goods or services could face a £100 penalty, while those selling items on London’s streets without permission could receive a penalty of £250. Councils will use the money collected from the penalties to pay towards environmental improvements across their boroughs.
Currently boroughs have to take people causing these acts of antisocial behaviour to court. This can be a lengthy and expensive exercise for the council. Under the London Local Authorities Act 2004, boroughs will now be able to take immediate action.
What they say
Chairman of the London Councils Transport and Environment Committee, Cllr Daniel Moylan, said: “London boroughs are committed to enhancing the quality of life for all of their residents.
“These new powers will enable us to tackle the selfish and inconsiderate actions of the few, which then damage the quality of the local environment for the many. They will also help to send a clear and simple message that anti-social actions will not be tolerated.”
The London Local Authorities Act 2004
It allows boroughs to issue fixed penalty notices for certain offences that they would normally have had to go through the courts. The Acts outlining the offences around noise and other nuisances, illegal street traders and flyposters are the Environmental Protection Act 1990, the London Local Authorities Act 1990 and the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 respectively. The penalties collected under the new powers have to go into a separate account and any surplus can only be spent by the boroughs for improving the environment of the area.
