Monmouthshire County Council’s environmental enforcement officers have been operating across the county for 12 weeks, helping to tackle littering offences and breaches of the council’s Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for dog control.

During the first two weeks of the initiative, officers focused on education and awareness, issuing warnings where appropriate to help residents and visitors understand the rules and their responsibilities.

Residents are encouraged to approach officers if they have questions about littering offences or the council’s dog control PSPO.

Enforcement officers are easily identifiable. They wear a uniform, including a black protective vest stating Enforcement Officer on the back, and carry official Monmouthshire County Council photo identification at all times.

The council would also like to reassure residents that if a Fixed Penalty Notice is issued, it will be provided in print at the time, along with information explaining how to pay or appeal.

Members of the public will never be asked to pay on the spot.

To date, 31 Fixed Penalty Notices have been issued. Five appeals have been submitted, with three being upheld following review.

The enforcement officers are provided by Kingdom Local Authority Support, a specialist enforcement company, who also manage the administration of payments and appeals.

The enforcement team does not work to targets. Their focus is on helping to keep Monmouthshire’s streets, parks and public spaces clean, safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, Cllr Catrin Maby, said: “The environmental enforcement officers have been doing a wonderful job in keeping our streets, parks and public spaces clean, safe and enjoyable for everyone.

“I would urge anyone with concerns about littering or dog control while out and about to speak to an officer. They are there to help.”

For further information, visit monmouthshire.gov.uk/public-spaces-protection-order-2024-dog-control/