COUNCILLORS have welcomed the Government's decision to increase fixed fines for littering and dog fouling to £50 for both offences, but say culprits will be given a second chance to avoid punishment.
Councillor Sylvia Szintai, lead member for environment and infrastructure, said: "We want to educate the public about their responsibilities for keeping the borough clean, and there's no doubt that since the wardens began their patrols we are seeing a tidier and cleaner borough.
"We still don't want to impose instant penalties. The wardens will always ask people to pick up litter or collect the dog mess. If they refuse, then they will be fined -and don't believe anyone can argue with that policy."
Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's community safety wardens have issued 74 fines since patrols began a year ago.
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