Malvern Hills District Council has been recognised for its litter-picking efforts and dedication to keeping the district clean.
The council’s Adopt a Street scheme received the prestigious ‘Litter Initiative of the Year 2021’ award by Keep Britain Tidy which recognises projects that have successfully reduced litter through sustained behaviour change.
The scheme, which was set up in 2019, encourages residents across the district to ‘adopt’ the street where they live or a chosen area. They will then litter pick that area and report issues to make it a cleaner and tidier place to live.
When someone signs up, they receive a welcome email with health and safety guidance and a pack which includes a litter picker, glove Hi-Viz and a roll of bags.
Since the first lockdown in March 2020, the scheme has grown to 380 individuals and 32 organisations signed up to take part. This includes parish councils, schools and youth organisations.
The Keep Britain Tidy Network Awards, which took place virtually on 3 February, reward innovation in improving local environmental quality and enable Network members to share good practice.
There were ten award categories in total, including: Outstanding Service Delivery Award, Team or Crew of the Year and Young #LITTERHEROES Award.
Cllr John Raine, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive an award for our efforts to keep our district clean and safe for everyone. I am so thankful to the staff and volunteers who go above and beyond to make this scheme such a success.”
Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/community/adopt-a-street for more information on the Adopt a Street scheme.
Pictured:Chris Thomas, Street Scene Warden, and Sam Syddall, Civil Enforcement Officer, at Malvern Hills District Council with their litter picks.
