VISITORS and commuters to Southampton are this week being greeted by new signs and banners along a major route into the city centre.

The city council is sprucing up the A35 western approach along the Redbridge Road, Millbrook Road and Mountbatten Way.

A major clean-up is being organised at the same time along the A35 clearing up the litter, removing graffiti and cleaning street signs.

The city council is supporting the national litter campaign Have You Dropped One, putting up signs for the campaign and information about a fixed £50 penalty for littering and dog fouling.

New city boundary gateway signs and Welcome to Southampton banners, featuring six different images: heritage, parks, football, arts, business and ocean liners, have been placed along the route, and a sponsorship agreement had been arranged with 103.2 Power FM.

Cabinet member for environment & Transport, Councillor Richard Williams said: "Cleaning up the city is a two-way street operation with the council and the public. The poster campaign gives a strong message about not dripping litter, especially out of your vehicle, and emphasises the fixed £50 penalty fines.

"Making sure the major routes into the city centre are kept clean, tidy and enhanced by

welcoming banners, gives a very good first impression of Southampton."

Another five routes into the city, including Bursledon Road, Thomas Lewis Way, Lordshill Way and Romsey Road and The Avenue, will soon have new gateway signage and Welcome to Southampton banners.