Drivers urged to tackle roadside litter

The Highways Agency encourages drivers to keep a bag in their vehicle for rubbish

Road users are being called on to help tackle roadside litter on England's motorways and major A roads.

The Highways Agency removes around 240,000 sacks of litter from England’s motorways every year, and drivers are encouraged to keep a bag for rubbish in their vehicles, until it can be disposed of in a bin.

Roadside litter is a threat to the environment and wildlife and can block drains and cause flooding.

For highway authorities, clearing litter diverts much-needed resources away from road maintenance and repairs, while items thrown from moving vehicles can be a hazard to other road users.

Roads Minister Mike Penning said: "Litter is an unsightly and unnecessary burden and one that we can easily avoid – that's why we are asking all road users to do something very simple to make the roads safer and more pleasant for everyone."

Further information:
Highways Agency