The council said litter bins would be where they were needed

The borough council is preparing to get tough on litter to try and resolve the problem in the town centre.

Staff from the council's street care team will be trained to issue notices to those who flout the new byelaws while businesses could be ordered to clear up outside their premises if it becomes littered.

Companies which fail to comply with the notices could face legal action.

The council said it has spent thousands trying to keep the town clean - including �22,000 last year on removing chewing gum from pavements.

Councillor Judith Lill said the measures were about prevention.

"There is a minority of people who blatantly litter our town and we are determined to take action.

"We will be reasonable however, and have a range of actions from an informal warning right through to prosecution so that we can offer a measured and fair approach to the problem."

Money raised through fines will go directly to the council and will be put back into improving the local environment.