Communities encourged to back the Great British Spring Clean

15 Mar 2024

The County Council is backing a bid to pick litter from Northumberland streets and public spaces during Keep Britain Tidy’s annual clean-up campaign. 

The Great British Spring Clean campaign, which runs from 15-31 March, is calling residents across the county to show their pride in their community by taking part in the mass action litter pick. 

The Council is supporting the charity’s #BigBagChallenge – a plea to the public to pledge on the charity’s website to pick one bag or more of litter from streets, parks, beauty spots and beaches in order to protect our vibrant communities and precious wildlife habitats.  

As part of the Council’s budget this year it is investing more in litter picking as part of its commitment to the environment and countryside and has welcomed the Keep Britain tidy campaign. 

This year’s Keep Britain Tidy marks its platinum anniversary, having been founded by Women’s Institute members in 1954. 

People can make a #PlatinumPledge to mark Keep Britain Tidy’s 70th year such as by picking 70 items, 70 bags, or spending 70 minutes in the great outdoors litter-picking. 

Councillor Colin Horncastle, Cabinet Member for Looking After Our Environment, said: “Protecting our natural environment is a real priority for this Council and we want everyone to play their part in keeping our county clean. 

“Whether it’s the local park, green space, beach or just the local streets we'd encourage as many people as possible to get involved and we’ll support them with the right equipment.” 

For those playing their part, bagged litter can be placed in the general household waste bin, with any recyclable items such as plastic bottles and drinks cans going in the recycling bin. 

For larger amounts of litter volunteers can make contact with the Council via email to agree collection arrangements. 

Anyone wanting to request litter picking equipment from the council or arrange for the removal of bagged collected litter can contact: highwaysandneighbourhoodservices@northumberland.gov.uk 

The Great British Spring Clean, now in its ninth year, brings together individuals, community organisations, businesses and councils to make a difference to the environment on our doorstep. 

Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, said: “The Great British Spring Clean simply would not be possible without the backing of our community partners. 

“We are so grateful for the ongoing support from Northumberland County Council. 

“The Great British Spring Clean is a fantastic way for councils to support residents to really show their pride in where they live, and connect with like-minded people, while taking serious and immediate action to protect the environment on their doorstep.” 

Residents can get involved in the Great British Spring Clean by pledging at: www.keepbritaintidy.org/gbspringclean  and using the hashtags #GBSpringClean #BigBagChallenge