Nearly 90 fines for Ipswich businesses after dumping rubbish

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Businesses have been fined for leaving rubbish bags outside their premises in the town centre.

Ipswich Borough Council has issued 67 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) to businesses that failed to manage their commercial waste responsibly, following targeted patrols and investigations in the town centre.

Officers found that some businesses were leaving bagged waste outside for long periods, creating litter problems when bags were torn open and rubbish spread across public areas.

A spokeswoman for Ipswich Borough Council explained that there have been 50 unique businesses that have been issued with an FPN.

"Despite the Council's efforts to educate those businesses on what they are required to do. 14 of these businesses have received more than one FPN," she added.

"One of these businesses has received 13 FPNs, with there being four other businesses being issued five or more FPNs."

George Lankester, portfolio holder for communities at Ipswich Borough Council, explained: "Businesses have a responsibility to manage their waste properly and to play their part in keeping Ipswich clean.

Council officers have been patrolling the town centre (Image: Ipswich Borough Council)

"The vast majority do exactly that, but we will not stand by while a minority leave waste on our roads outside agreed collection times.

"Where businesses fail to put things right, we will take action."

The enforcement activity has already reduced the amount of visible bagged commercial waste in the town centre.

The council has made it clear that businesses that do not comply with regulations can expect further enforcement action.

An additional 22 cases are currently being processed, bringing the total number of FPNs issued to 89.

The council has encouraged all businesses to review their waste management arrangements and ensure staff are aware of proper disposal practices.

Mr Lankester said: "Our targeted enforcement work is delivering results.

"The result is less waste being left on our streets and a cleaner town centre for everyone who lives, works and visits here."

The zero-tolerance approach follows the council’s announcement of an extra £400,000 investment in street cleansing, made on July 9.

The council said it will continue monitoring the situation and working with businesses to improve compliance, but will take enforcement action where necessary to protect the wider community.

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