Agenda item

Members raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of website content management and incorrect classification. Difficulties in locating the right place on the website to report an ASBET issue were highlighted. The Committee heard that residents had been able to access the system since 2019/2020, and the GOS system, a reporting tool, had gradually incorporated different teams and services. With regard to the department's role in website design and assisting residents in correctly classifying issues, it was explained that a Business Process and Improvement Team had been implemented to work with Corporate Communications, review and improve the current web pages and work with the customer access team for GOSS ensuring clarity for residents and correct redirection to relevant teams.

Councillors raised further concerns regarding residents’ misunderstanding of the current system and the fact that many struggled to understand the definitions. It was acknowledged that there were challenges and that the solution involved both system corrections and a service team to focus on this. It was confirmed that there were ongoing efforts to reorganise information for clarity and ensure proper redirection from the beginning.

The Committee shifted the discussion to communications about potential fines and legal consequences. Current strategies were outlined, including increased fines from 1 April 2024, better management of fly tipping, and utilisation of CCTV footage to identify offenders and hotspots. It was confirmed that residents were appraised of court prosecutions and fines via corporate communications and social media. It was acknowledged that education was also key to ensure residents fully understood the possible legal implications of fly tipping and enforcement action. At the request of Members, it was agreed that a guidance note for Councillors regarding the process would be prepared.

Councillors proposed obtaining a list of HMOs in the Borough to assist in addressing issues related to mattresses being fly tipped in certain areas. Members were informed that ongoing discussions with Waste Services were underway to explore potential enforcement action against landlords or managing agents in cases where there was sufficient evidence to support this.

Members sought further clarification regarding the evidence required for issuing fines, citing discrepancies in processes observed. It was explained that there was a need for sufficient and appropriate evidence, which could include eyewitness accounts, CCTV footage, or documentation found in waste. The importance of satisfying a criminal standard of proof beyond reasonable doubt was emphasised.

Concerns were raised regarding possible discrepancies in the treatment of different cases. Hillingdon's enforcement policy was clarified, which followed a stepped approach, advising and warning residents before escalating to enforcement action. It was noted that many of the residents in question were vulnerable and possibly unaware of their responsibilities in terms of storage and waste.

Members suggested a streamlined approach based on whether the issue was on public or private land. Past misdirection issues were acknowledged, and the current classification system was explained, whereby public land issues without evidence were referred directly to Street Waste Services for clearance. If potential evidence was found, it was redirected to ASBET for further action.

RESOLVED: That the ASBET Update be noted.