SUPERMARKETS in Droitwich could be fined over abandoned shopping trolleys under new proposals announced by Wychavon District Council.
The move has been sparked by several complaints from residents and councillors about abandoned shopping trolleys which have littered streets and watercourses like streams and ponds across the district.
So far this year Wychavon has collected nearly 30 trolleys from watercourses alone which has cost the taxpayer in the region an estimated £3,000.
Portfolio holder for the environment and street scene at Wychavon District Council, Emma Stokes, said: “Abandoned shopping trolleys have a huge impact on the environment.
“It is totally unfair for local taxpayers to be picking up the bill.”
The council intends to adopt powers under the Environmental Protection Act which will cost companies £100 for the first trolley collected and £50 for every additional trolley.
However at an Executive Board meeting on July 8, councillors decided a tougher approach is needed.
They agreed to a six week consultation on the introduction of the charges.
Once the results are reported back to the board in September and councillors agree, the new fees could be introduced by the end of the year.
Emma Stokes added: “It is important people take part in the consultation to let us know how abandoned shopping trolleys are impacting the area and whether or not they support our approach.”
To take part in the consultation visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/abandoned-shopping-trolleys and fill in the survey. Paper copies are also available from Community Contact Centres in Droitwich, Evesham and Pershore.
The consultation ends on 21 August.
