Newly published figures have revealed how Tendring District Council (TDC) teams rose to the challenges posed by increased visitor numbers during the summer season.
For the past two years the council has published a Summertime Plan looking at how it will manage additional pressures created by the tourism economy – particularly acute in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic when more people opted for domestic holidays – such as littering and dog fouling.
The priorities were chosen based on feedback from local residents, and the authority’s response has been beefed-up in recent years through the creation of new internal enforcement groups and the introduction of Community Ambassadors.
Between June and August the Community Safety and Engagement team carried out 333 patrols, while four warnings were issued for fly-tipping.
Three abandoned vehicles were seized, while the council’s Dog Warden has issued ten fines, testified in court as part of a successful prosecution over animal welfare, and issued a community protection notice.
Carlo Guglielmi, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member lead for Enforcement, said the data showed the effectiveness of the Summertime Plan.
“We absolutely welcome visitors to our beautiful district and the Essex Sunshine Coast, recognising the significant contribution this makes to our local economy – and the growth in domestic tourism as a result of Covid-19 is something we must capitalise one,” Cllr Guglielmi said.
“Wherever you have more people there will be additional pressures, and it is important that we as a council rise to those; not only in support of our local communities, but also to ensure we remain a welcoming and attractive visitor destination.
“Our Summertime Plan has helped us to this, and these figures show that by preparing for the high season in a more co-ordinated way, and by setting clear priorities, we can achieve a better balance for all.”
TDC has bought mobile CCTV cameras and is equipping front-line enforcement officers with body-worn cameras to allow for better evidence should cases go on to fines or prosecution.
