Revealed: Not one fine given in Cannock spitting crackdown

Cannock Chase Council introduced the fixed penalty fines for spitting on September 1 last year in response to concerns it was damaging the town centre's image.

It followed the prosecution of four people who were ordered to pay fines ranging up to £200.

However, since the measures have been brought in, nobody has been fined, with environmental managers believing the punishment has successfully worked as a deterrent.

Critics had argued a year ago that the move was 'unworkable' in practice and that the problem hasn't been solved.

The fines, which can be reduced to £50 if paid within 10 days, are dealt with by three council environmental health officers in the same way as for littering and dog mess.

Mike Walker, environmental protection manager said: "As of yet we have not witnessed anyone spitting nor have we had any reports of individuals doing so from our partner agencies – such as police.

"Nor have we had any reported from residents about spitting issues.

"We are hoping that the publicity given has successfully reduced the potential of any incidence of spitting in the district."

Councillor Paul Snape said at the time it would be 'great in theory but unworkable in practice.'

Yesterday, he said: "I would have hoped the fear of the legislation and threat of prosecution would put people off doing it, but unfortunately people still are spitting and it is not a nice thing to see on the streets in the town."

The move was unanimously approved by members of Cannock Chase Council's cabinet last August.

Only a handful of local authorities across the UK have brought in the legislation.

An original nationwide ban which then carried a £5 fine was rescinded by the government in 1992 with health experts claim that spitting can aid the spread of infection diseases such as tuberculosis.

The Cannock crackdown was promoted in the district, with banners put up in town centres and on local landmarks like the bandstand in the town. Posters bearing the slogan 'SPIT STOP! You're being watched' and explaining the reasons for the campaign were distributed.

Councillor Carl Bennett, who was Portfolio Leader for Environment when the fine scheme first came into action, said yesterday of his campaign: "I have been stopped in the street and congratulated for taking action – this means that the Cannock Chase District is a very clean place to live and to visit.

"I fully congratulate all of those involved."