Figures show that smokers who drop their cigarettes in Leeds city centre have payed £279,380 in fines over the last 15 months.
Statistics taken from Data Mill North revealed a shocking statistic which shows 99% of all fines handed out for littering were for “cigarette” related littering.
Councilor Barry Anderson, representative for Adel & Wharfedale commented on the spike in fines for the littering of cigarettes.
He said, “We need to inform and educate smokers of the impact they are having in terms of littering and environmental impact they are having.”
For those caught littering, he said, “We need to fine them more to send a message to them, it is not tolerated.”
He continued saying, “More bins are needed to be placed strategically for all forms of littering.”
Fines for 5,234 “cigarette” related incidents of littering built up considerably faster than, general litter, chewing gum and food waste. General litter costs Leeds residents over £3,500 while chewing gum costs £820 and food waste costs £320.
January to March 2022 saw a huge spike in fines, with £77,980 being taken from littering smokers.
April to June saw a dip in levels with £58,780 in fines. Levels spiked again at the end of the year when £62,000 was taken during the festive period.
January to March of 2023 saw a huge decrease in cigarette fines compared to a year prior. Only £22,000 was taken compared with the £77,980 taken in the previous year.
These trends may show that heavy fines are having an affect on smokers who litter in the city centre.
