LITTERING, dog fouling and graffiti often top the lists of residents’ concerns but culprits could now find themselves paying the price for their behaviour.

Newport City Council’s community safety wardens have new powers to tackle this type of “enviro-crime” by issuing fixed penalty notices.

Wardens previously focused on dealing with antisocial behaviour in residential areas, but now they will be able to take a wider range of action thanks to the Clean Neighbourhood and Environment Act.

They have already started issuing fixed penalty notices, which range from £75 to £200 and failure to pay could lead to a court appearance and a bigger fine.

They can also give verbal warnings as well as make referrals to the police.

In addition, wardens can report problems such as fly-posting, illicit advertising, illegal street trading, begging and damage to other council departments.

The 21-strong team now covers the city from 10am to midnight. As well as high visibility patrols, they are trained to deploy CCTV in antisocial behaviour hotspots.

Gwent Police Superintendent for Newport, Julian Knight, welcomed the return of the wardens to the city centre and said working alongside neighbourhood police, their presence would enhance public confidence and reassurance.

He said: "The additional powers the wardens now have will provide a useful deterrent to low level antisocial behaviour in Newport and encourage people to be more responsible for their actions."

Residents can contact the warden service on 01633 656656 or emailing incidents.wardens@newport.gov.uk