City wardens see powers extended

Fixed penalty notices will be issued for littering and dog fouling

Community wardens in Stirling are to have their powers extended to allow them to issue fines for littering and dog fouling.

Since 2005, the main role of the wardens has been to carry out patrols and report on anti-social behaviour.

Stirling Council said they would now be issuing on-the-spot fines after patrols alone proved unsuccessful.

Those caught littering will be fined £50, while dog owners will be fined £40 for allowing their pets to foul.

Councillor Alasdair MacPherson said the area's seven community officers would not hesitate to issue fines when necessary.

He added: "Sadly, we have had to accept that the process of engagement, education, information and advice has not been sufficiently strong to make a significant dent in the twin scourges of dog fouling and litter.

"The teams will continue to engage and educate but now, where those responsible do not respond positively, the wardens will not hesitate to impose the relevant fixed penalty notice on the perpetrators."