Council officers recently responded to a matter of illegal dumping at Kissing Point Park, Putney as a result of a formal complaint from a member of the public.
Council staff invited the gentleman to a short, formal interview in order to give him the opportunity to explain his actions prior to determining whether a fine should be issued. The interview took less than forty minutes and the gentleman was treated with professional courtesy and respect at all times. . A fine was issued in keeping with the gentleman’s own admission of the offence.
The Council Officer acted correctly in interviewing the gentleman and investigating the claim of illegal dumping and the enforcement of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 that does not discriminate against any person based on age, race or gender. Council should not apologise for having strong legislation that protects the environment from illegal dumping.
Council’s independent adjudication panel has assessed the application and the gentleman’s circumstances and have agreed to withdraw the fine on this occasion.
Media contact: Lee Kirkland, City of Ryde, T 9952 8083
