Coalville residents living in certain parts of the town could be fined in future if they do not take their bins in on time.

But the suggestion has met with some angry responses online.

North West Leicestershire District Council is proposing the penalties for those living in seven selected streets.

The council says that bins not taken back into their respective properties once they have been emptied by refuse collectors can 'cause problems'.

Residents have been asked for their views on the scheme which would punish people who leave their bins out late into the evening.

The Council says: "Bins left on streets for a long time can cause problems.

"We're proposing a fine for people who leave their bins out past 9pm on the day their bin is collected on these streets:

• Berrisford Street Coalville
• Margaret Street Coalville
• Melbourne Street, Coalville
• Bridge Road, Coalville
• Adam Morris Way, Coalville
• William Bees Road, Coalville
• Mantle Lane, Coalville (House numbers 4-30)

"What do you think? Tell us your thoughts by emailing [email protected]."

But some people have already made their feelings known online.

One said: "Disgraceful! this isn't for safety, this is just a stealth tax!"

Another added: "I think someone must have hijacked the NW Leicester page. No-one would suggest such a stupid idea surely?"

Another comment reads: "I do not agree with your proposal of the same day. Shift workers, illness, what if you need a carer to bring your bin in because you cannot? I agree with fines but not like this."

More than one response suggested that the bins are not put back in the place where they left them: "Why don't the refuse collectors put the bins back where they collect them from? I regularly have to go down the road to fetch mine."

Another response says: "Are you taking the Mick!? Bins left nicely out of the way not blocking public footpaths, bin operative come along then it's an obstacle course just before school time!"

But at least one comment goes along with the council's suggestion: "I agree I'm fed up of not being able to walk down the street because of bins blocking the path. I've noticed that some people never move them.off the front."