A COMMUNITY spring cleaning day has been hailed a success – and a call is being made for more people to become Middlesbrough Street Champions.
The Community Clear Up Day initiative – in partnership with Keep Britain Tidy – gives local community groups the recognition they deserve for leading the fight against the scourge of litter.
In Middlesbrough a launch event was held in Gresham with ward councillors Cllr Tracy Harvey and Cllr Bob Brady and Deputy Mayor Dave Budd being joined by five Street Champions and Council Enforcement officers.
The group targeted alleys behind Tennyson Street and Bow Street, carrying out inspections, identifying fly-tipping and removing rubbish.
Councillor Harvey, who is also Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Environment, said: “Our communities take great pride in their local areas and public spaces, and we’ve made great strides in recent years to make Middlesbrough a cleaner and tidier place.
“But there’s always more to do if we’re to rid ourselves of the scourge of litter, so this is a great opportunity for people to make a real difference.
“Every little helps – by working together we can turn eyesores into assets, and make our local areas better places to live and work.
“We would urge anyone in the town who wants to work with us to improve their environment to get in touch and discuss becoming a Street Champion.”
Cllr Brady added: “It was a very, very successful day and showed what can be achieved with co-operation between the Council and the general public.
“It was only two small areas but we want to spread that throughout the ward and throughout the town.
“The majority of people are responsible but there is a small minority of people who are selfish.
“This is to encourage people concerned about their environment to take an active part.”
The Community Clear Up Day initiative – in partnership with Keep Britain Tidy – was organised to give local community groups the recognition they deserve for leading the fight against the scourge of litter.
- For more information and advice on support for local initiatives – including waste sacks, litter pickers and gloves – contact Middlesbrough Council on 01642 726001 or email envservices@middlesbrough.gov.uk