A new council initiative is putting pressure on companies across Belfast to 'clean up their act' and commit to making the city a more welcoming place to live, visit and invest.

The Belfast Litter Pledge obliges firms to maintain a litter free environment around their premises, encourage staff against the habit and advise them about the pledge. Companies are also bound to reduce waste generated by their operations and dispose of it correctly, while also reporting all fly tipping to the council.

Council will support firms to deliver on their commitment and in turn enable the city to thrive as it attracts more visitors, shoppers and investment. Participating firms will receive a free litter kit containing litter picks, dustpans, brushes, gloves, window stickers and pocket ash trays to help get started.

Councillor Michael Collins, Chair of the People and Communities Committee is encouraging businesses to embrace the challenge. He said: "Right across Belfast people are working hard to make our city an attractive place to live, work and invest. First impressions are very important and that's why we are challenging local businesses to take pride in their appearance and show that they care for their locality by signing up to our Belfast Litter Pledge.

"Not only does it set a good example to others, it could benefit overall business performance by encouraging more footfall through their doors."

Businesses have a responsibility to look after and maintain the area around their premises and failing to do so could result in a legal notice being served of £110. The new campaign will also reinforce the message that throwing away litter will result in an on the spot £80 fine.

The campaign has been welcomed by Belfast City Centre Management. Niall Burke, a Business Liaison Officer said: "Belfast City Centre Management is a keen supporter of Belfast City Council's next phase of their anti-litter campaign. We believe that creating a clean and vibrant city for everyone to enjoy is of the upmost importance and the Belfast Business Litter Pledge is a great initiative to encourage a collaborative effort for tackling litter and creating a positive image of our city."

Visit the council website for more information or to sign your business up.