Date issued: 17 February 2020
This spring, Keep Britain Tidy is calling on Litter Heroes and schools across the borough to help improve the environment on their doorstep by taking part in the Great British Spring Clean 2020.
Running from 20 March to 13 April, the Great British Spring Clean is organised nationally by Keep Britain Tidy and supported locally by Colchester Borough Council.
This year’s campaign will not only see tonnes of litter being removed from the environment on our doorstep, it also aims to rescue thousands of the plastic bottles and aluminium drinks cans that are simply thrown on the ground but could, very easily, be recycled.
Using the ‘three bags full’ approach, volunteers will be asked to separate the litter they pick into three bags: one for plastic bottles, one for aluminium cans and a third for the rest of the rubbish.
Colchester Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Services team will then collect these bags to ensure that they are recycled appropriately. They can also support your litter pick by providing you with bags, hi-vis jackets and loan you litter pickers, including extra-long ones for those tricky spots, smaller ones for children and ones specifically designed for use on beaches.
Cllr Mike Lilley, Colchester Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Communities, Wellbeing and Public Safety, said: “Like most people, I simply cannot understand why people drop litter in the first place. One thing we do know though, is that litter tends to attract more litter, so the sooner it is cleared up the better. The council cannot be everywhere, so it is vital that we act in partnership with local groups, parish councils, schools and businesses to keep our borough clean.”
Cllr Martin Goss, Colchester Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Waste, Environment and Transportation, said: “I encourage all residents to take part and enjoy the day – it’s such a great way to teach young family members about caring for the environment too.
“Residents who would like to make a regular difference to their local area can also sign up to become Litter Warriors. In groups of up to 20 friends, family or neighbours, Litter Warrior’s pledge 16-hours per month to keep their community spick and span. Together we can make a difference and clean up the environment on our doorstep for a Better Colchester.”
To find out more or to register your ‘clean up’ head to Keep Britain Tidy’s website www.keepbritaintidy.org/get-involved/support-our-campaigns/great-british-spring-clean Those that would like bags delivered and collected by our Neighbourhood Services team, or borrow litter pickers or hi-vis jackets will need to contact communities@colchester.gov.uk.
Find out more about Litter Warriors at www.colchester.gov.uk/litterwarriors
Page last reviewed: 17 February 2020