RESIDENTS in Teignbridge are being promised a ‘faster and more consistent approach’ to anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping and environment issues.

But, a spokesman for Teignbridge Council said, rather than ‘clamping down’ on offenders straight away’, the new policy will promote ‘issuing advice and guidance first’.

Enforcement action will only be taken ‘when it is needed’.

The council has agreed on a new policy to tackle enforcement problems.

Cllr David Palethorpe, Teignbridge District Council Executive Member for Economy, Estates and Major Projects, explained: ‘Residents rightly expect the council to take concerns seriously when rules are being broken.

‘This policy will help us respond more effectively and consistently across our enforcement services.

‘Most people and businesses want to do the right thing. Our first step will always be to provide advice and support to help resolve issues.

‘When problems affect neighbours, communities, public health or the environment, residents need confidence that the council can act. This policy gives us a clear and fair way to do that.’

The council’s ruling executive committee approved the new Unified General Enforcement Policy.

It sets out one clear approach for how the council deals with enforcement issues across its services.

It will help officers deal with complaints more consistently and make it easier for residents to understand what the council can do.

Residents will be given clear information about decisions, any action being taken, and how to challenge or appeal a decision.

The policy also recognises that people may have different needs and circumstances, including communication and accessibility requirements.

By setting a single standard across enforcement services, the council says it ‘aims to provide a more consistent, transparent and efficient service for residents across Teignbridge’.