BUSINESS owners in Darlington have been warned that they could face a £2,500 fine for failing to comply with a litter crackdown.

The hard-hitting approach is part of Darlington Borough Council's efforts to clean up the town centre and residential areas.

Officers have targeted more than 600 local businesses, asking them to sign up to the council's Tidy Trader Charter, which requires them to ensure that the area around their premises is well maintained.

A list of businesses creating the worst littering problems will soon be drawn up and serious offenders will be targeted in future.

The council's director of community services, Cliff Brown, said: "Areas surrounding individual businesses will initially be cleaned by the council and enforcement activities will then be arranged. Businesses will be expected to play their part by ensuring that bins are provided and that the area is cleaned regularly.

"Those businesses who fail to comply will be subjected to a street enforcement notice, which could result in a £2,500 fine being issued and negative publicity being experienced."

The campaign, which is backed by The Northern Echo, has already seen 20 fines of £50 handed out to people dropping litter and more than 100 cautions issued.

In a report to councillors, Mr Brown added: "It is hoped that the business community will act positively regarding this initiative and that, by working in partnership with the council, a significant impact can be made to improve the littering problem."