4.5 tonnes of litter cleared on the A41

In September Dacorum Borough Council's Clean Safe and Green team cleared 4.5 tonnes of rubbish from the A41.

On the same stretch of road just six months ago, 4 tonnes of rubbish was collected.

The latest nine day clean-up project comes despite lockdown falling over the last six months with many people working from home.

Clean-up costs reached nearly £16,000 which was less than normal due to the crew teaming up with Herts County Council who were cutting the grass. This allowed savings on traffic management that's required to maintain safety on the high speed road.

Among the items collected were disposable face coverings and gloves.

Councillor Alan Anderson, Portfolio Holder for Environment Services, said:

"I would like to personally thank the Clean, Safe and Green team for the fantastic job they do every day, and especially on this occasion on this particularly dangerous stretch of road. While it is heartening to see their dedication, it's a job that shouldn't need doing. Littering is illegal, damages the environment and jeopardises wildlife.

"I would urge people to keep litter in their cars until they get home and can dispose of it correctly. We have put up signs on the slip roads to say how much the litter picking costs the taxpayer, and if the littering continues, we will have to consider taking enforcement measures"

Local authorities can fine the registered owner of a vehicle £100 if someone is seen throwing rubbish out of the vehicle, regardless of who threw it.

Dacorum Borough council are also reminding people that littering is a severe hazard to wildlife, injuring or killing thousands of animals and birds every year.

You can find more on what to do if you see someone throwing litter on the council website.