West Midlands authority reveals plans to use the kind of software and camera technology behind ANPR to help find those hurling sweet wrappers and coffee cups onto the city streets

Wolverhampton City Council is planning to deploy artificial intelligence-based tools to help catch and punish drivers throwing rubbish from their cars.

The West Midlands authority has revealed its intention to put in place a four-year contract – beginning next summer and covering the provision of automated hardware and software intended to help identify those littering the city from a vehicle in transit.

The council has published a commercial planning notice alerting prospective suppliers to its plans, and providing outline details of the technology it is seeking to deploy. The tools in question would tap into automatic number plate recognition to find drivers depositing items out of their window.

“Wolverhampton City Council is exploring innovative solutions to combat roadside littering from moving vehicles,” the document says. “The project involves procuring AI-powered, solar-enabled smart camera systems capable of detecting littering incidents, identifying vehicle license plates, and transmitting evidence securely for enforcement. This initiative aims to reduce environmental crime, minimise costly road closures, and enhance public safety by deploying technology along key arterial routes.”

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The city authority is currently undertaking a market-engagement exercise and, until 15 December, potential providers are invited to take part, via a dedicated website.

According to the council’s website, littering is punishable by a fixed penalty notice of £100 – a figure which is reduced to £80 if payment is made within two weeks of the fine being issued.

“These amounts are set by City of Wolverhampton Council. They are much lower than the national average,” the site adds. “Failure to pay could lead to a prosecution and a fine of up to £2,500.”

Fines for environmental offences – including fly tipping, street littering, and graffiti – are set by local authorities. Following a change to legislation made in 2023, the maximum amount councils can levy via on-the-spot penalties was raised from £150 to £500.