PEOPLE who allow Japanese Knotweed and other invasive plants to spread face a fine and an Asbo.

Under the new Government rules of The Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 - which now classes failing to control invasive plants as ‘anti-social behaviour’ - homeowners could be fined up to £2,500.

The move has been welcomed by Carmarthenshire County Council leader Kevin Madge who believes Japanese Knotweed is a “major issue” in the Amman Valley.

“The plant can be seen growing in many places throughout the Amman Valley, particularly on the railway line,” said Cllr Madge.

“I welcome the news. In the last 15 years knotweed in the Amman Valley has advanced like a triffid, it’s everywhere.

“The plant is going to destroy people’s gardens if things don’t change.”

The weed is one of the most destructive plants in the UK costing the British economy millions of pounds each year to manage.

Parts of the Government document which explains the new ruling states: "Invasive non-native plants that cause serious problems include Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and giant hogweed.

"These plants threaten our native biodiversity by crowding out native species and destabilising river banks. They can also cause damage to forestry, agriculture and infrastructure sectors."

The guidance explains how council officers or police can use community protection notices to "stop or prevent" people growing Japanese knotweed if it causes problems.

"The notice can be used to require someone to control or prevent the growth of Japanese knotweed or other plants that are capable of causing serious problems to communities," it says.

"Breach of any requirement of a community protection notice, without reasonable excuse, would be a criminal offence," it adds, resulting in an on-the-spot penalty of £100 or prosecution, which could bring a £2,500 fine. Organisations could be fined up to £20,000.

Councillor Madge added, “If people in the Valley know they have a problem and don’t do anything about it then they should be served with an Asbo.

“The message is clear - deal with it or face the consequences.”