Gravesend’s litter cops will punish residents for putting out rubbish bags at the wrong time under new powers given to them by council bosses.

Enforcement officers are due to target rubbish hotspots on the town centre outskirts where some people have ignored face-face warnings, letters, signs and leaflets.

Offenders who put out black bags outside designated collection days are due to receive a £75, up from £60 in line with new littering penalties.

Streets identified as eyesores because of overflowing mess include Harmer Street, Wellington Street, Wrotham Road, Cobham Street and Darnley Street.

The extension of powers is due to be approved at Gravesham council’s cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

Kingdom Security Limited was appointed by the council to enforce litter charges on a year-long pilot following a successful trial last year.

Since patrols began in February, 640 fines have been issued to people dropping rubbish in the town centre.

According to a council document, the scheme has resulted in cleaner streets but problems remain in roads surrounding the town centre.

Gravesham council leader John Cubitt said: "While we have all been impressed with the success of the litter enforcement in the town, which has made a significant improvement, we are determined not to stand still.

"Those who consistently flout the rules will have to understand that there are going to consequences."

Cabinet member for community services Cllr Sandra Garside said: "I welcome the extension of the enforcement patrols which we sincerely hope will make a noticeable difference.

"Our aim during this trial we will be to get those streets cleared and kept clear.

"At the end of the day, if we don’t have to issue any fines we will have succeeded."