Household Litter On Our Streets

Littering is still a problem in Blackburn and Darwen, and the problem isn't just confined to people disposing of empty crisp packets, drinks cans or cigarette buts while out and about.

It has been reported that some people have left household waste in back alleys across the town including Christmas trees, sofas, electrical items and car tyres. These items are probably dumped in the hope that the council will eventually remove the rubbish at no expense to their original owners.

However, a Blackburn man is today counting the cost of leaving rubbish in a back alley.

Mohammed Patel of Walter Street, Blackburn, failed to appear at Blackburn magistrates court on Friday (January 16). He was convicted in his absence of failing to comply with a section 46 notice under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, requiring him dispose of rubbish correctly in the bin.

Patel was fined £350 with £377 costs and a £15 victim surcharge. The case was brought by Blackburn with Darwen Council after the offence in October.

A reminder that people are made to pay for their irresponsible actions when caught.