TOUGH new rules to curb unsightly trade waste cluttering up the city centre come into effect at the weekend.

From tomorrow, any bins found on streets and lanes outwith designated times will be removed and confiscated by a city council team.

The scheme has been introduced as bulky, brightly coloured waste containers on streets, pavements and lanes are blighting the appearance of the city centre.

They can also create obstructions and result in litter spilling onto the streets and pavements and problems for visually impaired and disabled people.

If the trial proves successful it will be rolled out across the rest of the city centre.

The new rules have been introduced in sections of Sauchiehall Street, Sauchiehall Lane and West Nile Street and on Robertson Street, Garth Street, John Street, North Lane and North Court where there are a total of 422 waste bins.

The scheme means no trade waste containers can be stored on pavements, streets and lanes outwith designated times.

Council bosses insist it is the responsibility of firms to find a waste contractor who will work with them to find a way to store waste within the business premises.

Similar schemes have been carried out in Edinburgh, Manchester and the City of Westminster.

Kenny McLean, the city council's convener for neighbourhoods, housing and public realm, said: "This project will make Glasgow city council more attractive for all those who work, live, study in or visit the area.

"Clearing commercial waste bins from our streets will make the city centre cleaner, greener and safer and we have received great support from local businesses and residents for the pilot scheme.

"We are greatly encouraged by the input of businesses within the project areas. Although this is a challenging initiative, this input will be invaluable in ensuring its success and our streets are cleaner."

Roger Green, chief executive officer of recycling specialist Brightwaste, said trade waste had become a real headache for local councils.

He added: "They clutter up city centre streets causing problems for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

"They also spoil the appearance of our cities and overflowing bins cause litter and attract vermin.

"There are simply too many bins on Glasgow's streets and too many lorries collecting waste causing traffic congestion at rush hour."