Wardens crack down on sun-seekers dropping rubbish

A WEEKEND crackdown will hit sun-seekers caught dropping rubbish in the city’s parks with a £50 fine.

With tens of thousands expected turn out for the hottest weekend of the year, the council’s environmental wardens will issue fixed penalty notices for those who fail to properly dispose of waste.

Litter levels this week have been far higher than usual due to the hot weather, especially in the Meadows.

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The litter fines system was introduced three years ago and wardens now issue more than 100 every month.

The Edinburgh University Students Association (Eusa) backed the move, but said the council would have to ensure there are enough paved barbecue sites and litter bags.

Fines can also be issued for discarded cigarette butts.

City environment leader Lesley Hinds said: “All we would ask is that everyone respects the rights of their fellow residents to enjoy Edinburgh’s parks and beaches. That means disposing of any litter in the nearest available bins and if using a disposable barbecue, making sure they do so on one of the dedicated sites in order to protect the grass.”

Last summer, the Meadows was left with charred patches from the use of barbecues placed directly on the grass, although a limited number of paving stones specifically for cooking had been placed.

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Eusa president Matt McPherson said: “Many of those out on the Meadows at this time of year are students who, on the whole, continue to be very active members of the community.

“We would like to see the council do more to facilitate the use of green spaces in the city, particularly ensuring there are plenty of spaces available for barbecues and litter.

“We will continue to work with the council to protect the city’s green spaces so everyone can enjoy them.”

Yesterday, the News reported how a 21-year-old woman was punched in the face and robbed of her phone after she tried to break up a drunken fight in the Meadows.

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