Scourge of litter tackled in North Solihull

EYESORE: A report this weekend highlighted the growing
problem of littering in England.

RESIDENTS will be encouraged to take part in litter picking initiatives around North Solihull later this month.

The borough has thrown its weight behind Community Clear Up Day, a nationwide ‘spring clean’ which was announced  by the Government earlier this year.

On Saturday, March 21, communities around the country will be taking to the streets to tackle the litter and fly-tipping that blight public spaces.

Locally, the efforts will be concentrated on Babbs Mill Park and residents are urged to come and pitch in to improve the look of the popular beauty spot.

There will be similar events in Chelmsley Wood town centre, along Beechcroft Road, Castle Bromwich and at Kingshurst Parade over the course of the following week.

The event follows a report yesterday (Saturday), which suggested that littering had become endemic across England.

The Department for Communities and Local Government has estimated that the problem costs taxpayers £850m a year, but the average on-the-spot fine for littering remains £80.

Phil Barton, from campaign group Keep Britain Tidy, said: “It is time for those in power to step up and take a lead. We know that people value and want to live in clean and tidy places. It is time for government to recognise this and take action.”

• To find out how to get involved in Clear Up Day, visit www.solihull.gov.uk/lovesolihull