Streets one step closer to spit-free zone (From Enfield Independent)

Enfield's streets one step closer to spit-free zone

9:19am Wednesday 11th July 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

Enfield’s streets are one step closer to becoming a spit-free zone.

Enfield Council has submitted a final application to the Government asking for permission to ban spitting in the borough.

If the by-law is accepted, a person caught spitting could face prosecution as well as a fine of up to £5,000.

Cabinet member for environment, Councillor Chris Bond, said: "Spitting is a truly revolting habit and the vast majority of people in Enfield want to see it banned.

"Our campaign to end this practice has resonated with people all over the United Kingdom and we've had a number of other councils contact us and say they are considering a similar ban.

"We're now waiting for the government to make a final decision on our application. We sincerely hope they make the right choice and reflect the wishes of people, not only in Enfield but across the country so we can start to rid our streets of spittle."

Council enforcement officers, who are already employed by Enfield Council, would hand out fixed penalty notices to offenders caught spitting in the streets.

The issue would be taken to court if the offender refuses to pay the fine, which is yet to be decided.

If waived through, Enfield Council would become the first local authority in England to ban spitting.

Proposals to ban the habit were submitted in February but the Government requested more information about public consultations before it could make a final decision.

More than 4,000 signatures supporting the ban were collected from the public and the issue was discussed at the authority's Overview and Scrutiny Panel and during full council meetings.