Brighton and Hove could be given a fresh and vibrant image under a blueprint listing ways of enhancing the city.

Run-down sites could be hidden behind smart advertising wraps, derelict buildings could be renovated and streets could be scrubbed clean of graffiti.

The list of more than 20 ideas has been put forward in a 68-page report.

The authors hope to make residents feel better about their city and improve their impression of the public services that keep the streets clean and tidy.

The recommendations are published in the best value review of the city's appearance which goes before Brighton and Hove City Council's policy committee on Wednesday.

The report says: "Keeping the city neat and tidy is seen as one of the most basic council services.

"Public perception of the council's performance in this area greatly influences public perception of the authority as a whole.

"We make no attempt to hide the fact that, for several years, public satisfaction with these services has been in decline."

Improving the appearance of run- down sites by placing advertising wraps or banners around them could generate income from advertisers.

The money would be put aside in a special fund to improve the appearance of Brighton and Hove.

There are many derelict sites or buildings being renovated which detract from the city's appearance.

Many other major European cities have used banner advertising to providing income and Brighton and Hove has already tried it at the Clock Tower.

The advertising wrap covered ugly scaffolding and provided enough money to decorate the city with bunting for the where else City of Culture bid.

Graffiti would be a major target and other recommendations include setting up a hotline so people can report problems more easily.

If put into action, the plan would get rid of clutter and make sure the appearance of street furniture was improved.

A big effort would be made to improve the collection of trade waste and the council could try different ways of storing rubbish in residential areas where back door collections cannot be made.

The report says black bin bags are unsightly and can be broken into by seagulls.

The council would also ask businesses and residents to help spruce up the city. Another idea is for an environmental business award to be set up.

Neighbourhood wardens could also be used to wage war on petty crime, graffiti and litter.

Tory environment spokeswoman Pat Drake said there were enormous problems with litter and graffiti that needed addressing.