Call for new drive-through fast food litter rules

A council is calling for takeaways to log car number plates in an attempt to deter littering.

Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, has written to a number of fast food businesses asking them to implement a scheme where vehicle registration numbers are recorded when orders are collected.

"If packaging is later dumped at the roadside or in the countryside, there is the potential to trace it back to the vehicle it came from," the council said.

A McDonald's spokesperson said: "While we have considered similar proposals previously, we have concerns about their effectiveness and, due to data protection regulations, are limited in the customer data we are able to share."

Councillor Waltham said he wanted to work constructively with restaurants, adding "the important thing is the deterrent".

"Making people understand that throwing rubbish from a car is not anonymous and there could be consequences," Waltham said.

"Yes, the responsibility is on the individual who buys the food or drink, but we all have a responsibility in finding something that works and helps keep North Lincolnshire clean.

"Residents rightly get frustrated when takeaway cups, wrappers and boxes are left along roadsides, in verges and across the countryside – and ultimately somebody has to pay to clear it up."

If restaurants agree, the initiative would involve businesses with drive-through or takeaway operations at locations across Scunthorpe, Barton-upon-Humber and the wider North Lincolnshire area, a council spokesperson said.

McDonald's said it took its "responsibility around litter very seriously and it is disappointing when any packaging is discarded irresponsibly".

"We will continue to work with the council on effective ways to combat litter, and our restaurant teams in the area remain committed to carrying out daily litter patrols and working with local communities to help keep the areas around our restaurants clean," a spokesperson said.

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