This is the sight that met City of York Council officers investigating complaints about an anti-social neighbour.
In the front garden of Charlotte Allenby’s Millfield Road home they found unemptied bins overflowing with decomposing rubbish.
It was not only a mess but presented an environmental hazard including a risk of attracting vermin.
The council’s neighbourhood enforcement officers offered her advice, information and help. Next a warning was issued and then a Community Protection Notice (CPN).
That gave a deadline for clearing away the rubbish. It was breached, and a fixed penalty was ignored.
So for the first time the council successfully prosecuted a resident for failing to heed the CPN.
Officers used new powers under the 2014 Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, to bring the prosecution. These are aimed at tackling unreasonable behaviour that has a persistent and detrimental effect on the quality of life of those nearby.
Support the community
At York Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (November 9), Allenby was found guilty in her absence, of failing to pay a fixed penalty notice for repeatedly not complying with notices to remove waste accumulating in her front garden.
The magistrate levied a £150 fine and Allenby was ordered to pay a court surcharge of £30 and prosecution costs of £550.50 – a total of £730.50.
Council leader Cllr David Carr said:
In this instance, despite considerable support offered, we have had to use the powers available to support the local community affected by this anti-social behaviour.
Anyone affected by anti-social behaviour can report it by calling 01904 551555 or emailing [email protected].