Keeping the streets clean

Litter

Few people admit to dropping litter but it's a problem that everyone can see. All litter is unsightly and makes our local areas look untidy and uncared for.

Any type of litter takes a long time to disappear naturally. According to Keep Britain Tidy the estimated timespan for items to degrade is:

• Orange peel / banana skin / apple cores – up to 2 years
• Plastic bags – 10 to 20 years
• Aluminium cans / nappies – 80 to 100 years
• Plastic bottles – indefinitely

There is a £100 fixed penalty for people who are witnessed dropping litter, with a reduction of the fine to £75 if paid within 7 days of issue. Failure to pay will result in prosecution leading to a fine of up to £2500.

To report litter or problems with litter bins use the form below:

Report a street cleansing issue

Organise a litter pick

Whether you're a community group, local business or an individual who would like to do their bit, we can support you with your litter pick.

If you'd like to volunteer to do a litter pick, you'll need to:

• read the guidance documents below
• complete the indemnity form and email it to stockportdirect@stockport.gov.uk

We can arrange litter pickers and sacks and agree a collection point for any filled sacks.

If you need an accessible copy of either of these documents, you can email stockportdirect@stockport.gov.uk.