FURIOUS businesses were up-in-arms after a mountain of rubbish was dumped on their doorsteps.

About 40 bin bags full of household waste were piled up outside the Wedding Centre in Grey Place.

They remained on the pavement for nearly two days despite calls by the owners of the shop for them to be lifted.

Inverclyde Council have since launched an investigation to try to trace those responsible for the flytipping.

One shop owner, who asked not to be named, said: “It is hard enough trying to get people through your doors without this.

“It all looked like household rubbish.

“We don’t know where it came from but there were wheelie bins there as well.” Passers-by were met with an overpowering stench from the rubbish.

One shopper told the Tele: “It was stinking — there’s always the danger of rats when rubbish is left lying like this.” The council made moves to get the waste shifted on Friday morning.

A spokesman said: “Our environment team are investigating this and will be trying to locate the person or people who have dumped this waste.” Residents and businesses are being reminded by Inverclyde Council about the burden illegal dumping places on the council taxpayer.

Households are asked to make sure that their rubbish is secure and kept off the pavements unless it is collection day. The environment team also advises that there is an uplift service that can be arranged free of charge for any extra waste.

Illegal dumping can be reported by calling 0845 230 4090 or visiting the council website www.inverclyde.gov.uk