TOWN centre wardens will be patrolling the streets of Blackburn later this year to cut anti-social behaviour.

The wardens are among a number of initiatives planned by the the Blackburn BID (Business Improvement District) for the year, revealed in its annual report and business plan.

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Although the exact job description of the wardens – which will be advertised from next month – has not yet been decided, it is believed they could have greater powers than a PCSO.

BID manager Harriet Roberts said town centre wardens had worked in other towns and could help to improve Blackburn.

She said: “This is something that other BIDs have used before and they have been successful, but depending on where they are in the country changes their roles.

“We are in the process of looking at job descriptions but we feel it will be a multi-purpose role.

“It is primarily about safety and security and being a presence on the street.

“In other areas it is possible to have more powers than a PCSO.

“They would also be there to deter anti-social behaviour on a low level, such as dispersing or moving on large groups who may not necessarily be doing anything wrong but can be intimidating.”

Ms Roberts said the wardens could also carry out tasks such as arranging for the removal of fly-tipped rubbish in the town centre and planting.

Their specific powers and roles will be decided at a meeting later this month, Ms Roberts said, but they are likely to include handing out fines to litter bugs.

She added: “Hopefully by March we will be able to start looking at advertising these roles.”

Another initiative revealed in the business plan is an ambitious £60,000 makeover of Astley Gate, at the top of Church Street.