Crackdown to fine smokers who stub out on the street

A NEW crackdown on smokers who drop cigarette butts in city streets will see £50 fixed penalties handed out.

Pouches designed to capture cigarette ends will be distributed throughout the Gorgie and Dalry area to businesses within the next few weeks.

But council wardens are set to up the number of patrols – and will hand out fines to anyone seen littering in the area.

The crackdown on smokers comes as irresponsible dog owners are also set to be targeted.

Mike Avery, south west neighbourhood manager, said: “Keeping our streets clean and tidy is one of our top priorities. We want to encourage people to make a few small changes that could have a major impact on the appearance of the south west neighbourhood.

“The vast majority of residents and visitors do clean up after themselves.

“But we are determined to target the irresponsible minority who drop cigarette ends or do not clean up after their dogs.”

In the coming weeks wardens will also be carrying out inspections of paving slabs and surfaces in the Gorgie/Dalry corridor and scheduling repairs, Mr Avery added.