A Cumbrian council has almost doubled its use of fines for anti-social behaviour over the last year.
Westmorland and Furness Council said 30 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) have been issued so far for a range of anti-social behaviour offences in the year 2026/27 after issuing only 19 in whole of the 2025/26 financial year.
The council said some of these FPNs were for littering but did not reveal how many.
Only one was issued for littering in the previous three years.
A freedom of information (FOI) request to Westmorland and Furness Council recently revealed that the authority, alongside the former Barrow Borough Council and former South Lakeland Council, handed out just one fixed penalty notice (FPN) for littering across Barrow and South Lakeland between 2022 and 2024.
A Westmorland and Furness Council spokesperson said: “While we are committed to taking enforcement action where possible, it is important to recognise how challenging it can be to catch and fine individuals for littering offences.
“To issue a Fixed Penalty Notice, the offence must be clearly witnessed, with sufficient evidence to identify the individual responsible.
“The witness must also be prepared to provide a formal statement and, if necessary, attend court should the fine go unpaid.
“These requirements mean that enforcement is not always straightforward.
The improved numbers come after Westmorland and Furness Council brought in new powers earlier this year to fine people involved in anti-social behaviour at beauty spots.
The Liberal Democrat-led council brought in public space protection orders (PSPOs) at 12 sites including Ambleside, Ullswater, Haweswater Reservoir and Windermere.
Individuals causing environmental damage by littering, starting fires or committing anti-social behaviour linked to camping could be fined up to £100, which could increase if not paid on time.
The council spokesperson said: “Littering and the improper disposal of waste has a significant impact on our communities, and we share the frustration when waste is discarded inconsiderately as it creates an unsightly appearance and harms the environment.
“Littering comes in many forms, not just small items such as cigarette butts, chewing gum, fast-food packaging, bottles and food waste. Wider issues include dog fouling and fly-tipping.”
An annual survey recording fly-camping and littering in the Lake District, run by Friends of the Lake District, has already received 720 responses from the public this year and will close at the end of August.
Their 2025 survey found that 97% of respondents had encountered littering in the National Park.
The council said they are currently “actively working” with businesses, visitors and residents to educate them on disposing waste correctly, alongside developing educational campaigns to raise awareness on littering.
Individuals who come across someone committing a littering offence are encouraged to report your evidence to Westmorland and Furness Council using their littering, dog fouling or fly-tipping form or by calling 0300 373 3300.
Share