COUNCILLORS in York are introducing a tough policy to clamp down on graffiti and flyposting.

The measures will be introduced before the Government's Antisocial Behaviour Bill comes into force.

The Bill will propose new powers for local authorities to deal with graffiti and fly posting.

City of York councillors are meeting on Wednesday to discuss the proposals, which include dealing with all racist, abusive and offensive behaviour on council property within 48 hours of notification on the (01904) 551551 helpline.

Offensive graffiti on private property will be removed within 48 hours of getting permission from the owner.

Under the proposals, any non-offensive material will be removed from council property within five working days of notification.

Private owners would be asked to remove non-offensive graffiti and any who refuse will be forced to do so once the Anti-Social Behaviour Bill becomes law.

Members will also be asked to approve plans to force offenders to remove fly-posters within 48 hours.

If they refuse to comply, the council will remove the posters and recover any costs incurred.

In addition to the new policy, recommendations include making graffiti-removal kits available to community groups and working with the council's leisure services team to ensure that flyposting of events held at council venues is prohibited.