A CONTROVERSIAL litter enforcement company is quitting Denbighshire.

Kingdom Services Group have informed Denbighshire County Council of their intention to withdraw services in the county from August 17, in line with their 28 days contractual notice.

Cllr Tony Thomas, cabinet lead member for housing, regulatory services and the environment, said: "The group have partnered the council in dealing with environmental issues such as littering and dog fouling over the last five years, in response to the Council’s efforts to make its streets cleaner and creating a pleasant environment for people to live in and visit.

"The joint work has made an impact in terms of awareness and there has been a marked reduction in the number of littering and dog fouling incidents.

"Whilst disappointed, we must respect Kingdom’s decision and would like to thank them for their co-operation over the past five years."

Kingdom has come under fire for its alleged heavy-handed approach, which many believe is driven by the commission it earns from the tickets its wardens give out.

Earlier this year, Denbighshire county councillors discussed a motion put forward by Prestatyn North councillor Paul Penlington to end their arrangement with Kingdom Security.

Members voted on an amended motion, for scrutiny to provide a report to cabinet, before a final decision was made in November.

Denbighshire County Council said they will now consider how the environmental education and enforcement work will continue in the future.

A spokesperson for the authority added: "Having clean and tidy streets remains a key priority for the council."

Earlier today, Kingdom revealed they would not be extending their contract with Conwy. The firm has given notice to the council that it does not want to extend its contract after August 9.