Drop litter in Dartford and run the risk of a hefty fine.

A patrol of uniformed officers is being introduced by the council to crack down on littering in
the town, and they have the power to issue a penalty notice of £75.

The move comes after residents were asked in October for their views on how to keep Dartford clean.

Council leader Jeremy Kite hopes the new measures will have a positive impact.

“We know that the vast majority of people dispose of their litter responsibly and clear up after their dogs but sadly there are a few that don’t,” said Cllr Kite.

“From January their selfishness will cost them dear.

“We’re hoping to get everyone’s support to ensure that Dartford is clean, tidy and safe.”

The new measures apply to people who drop litter, cigarette butts and those who don’t clear up after their dogs.

Businesses are also being urged to ensure their waste is disposed of correctly, and the council is promising to make sure litter bins are emptied regularly and to support the work of groups dedicated to keeping the borough clean.

Residents have taken to social media to back the initiative.

Ana Missach said it was “about time” for a crackdown on littering, while Julie May said it showed the council were “on the right track”.

Litter officers will be on patrol from January 25.

Dartford Labour leader Jonathon Hawkes, meanwhile, has criticised the council for delays in rubbish and recycling collections in Stone and Greenhithe over the Christmas period.

He said that recycling targets for 2016 would likely be missed.

“Collecting refuse and recycling on time is a test of basic competence of the council and this Christmas they failed that test,” he said.

“It’s little wonder that recycling rates in Dartford are forecast to miss target for 2016.

“The council needs to do much better than this.”