RESIDENTS have been warned they could face heavy fines if they are caught fly-tipping while a £750,000 refuse centre revamp is carried out.

Darlington Borough Council is investing the money in upgrading the tip, off Whessoe Road, and will close the site at the end of September for about six weeks.

The work includes new lighting and a closed-circuit television system, more large skips, ramps and temporary buildings for on-site workers.

Town hall officials hope the work will reduce the traffic congestion on Whessoe Road, often caused by cars queuing to get onto the site, as well as making recycling easier.

Yesterday, the council revealed full details of the alternative arrangements made for residents to dispose of their waste.

Bosses also warned that they would be on the lookout for anyone resorting to illegal action - and could bring offenders before the courts.

People found dumping waste in the street or back lanes could be charged with fly-tipping, an offence which can carry a fine of up to £50,000.

Councillor Stephen Harker, the council's cabinet member for environmental services, said: "This work will make it easier for people to recycle and get rid of their rubbish. While the centre is closed, I would urge everyone to look at the alternatives and dispose of their waste responsibly."

While the tip is closed, people are being urged to keep as much rubbish as they can to bring to the new-look site, once it has opened.

But arrangements have been made with Durham County Council and North Yorkshire County Council for people who want to get rid of waste during the closure period.

The household waste recycling centre in Heighington Lane, Newton Aycliffe, and the facility in Gatherley Road, Catterick, North Yorkshire, will both be open for Darlington residents.

Trailers and vans are banned from the Newton Aycliffe site, but all vehicles are welcome at Catterick. Trade waste is not allowed at either site.

In the weeks leading up to the tip's closure, the council will also be carrying out a customer satisfaction survey to find out what people think about the site and what they would like to see in the future.

Once it has re-opened, the centre will provide facilities to sort and recycle green waste, timber, cardboard, bric-a-brac, gas bottle, glass, paper, tyres and soil.