Council unveils £5m plan to clean up Luton’s streets with new ‘Getting It Done’ campaign
The leader of Luton Council has revealed its latest campaign to clean up the streets with 65 new jobs being created and millions invested in the town.
The council says it will put £2 million into street cleansing, tackling litter and fly-tipping, as well as a deep clean programme and fixing problems caused by inconsiderate parking.
Cllr Tahmina Saleem, leader of the council, was filmed in Marsh Farm, with a team of council workers responding to reports of fly-tipping and littering in the area.
In the social media video, she said: “I'm here in Copenhagen Close in Marsh Farm because you've told us you're fed up with fly-tipping, litter and the general state of your streets. “We've listened, and we're taking action.”
The former mayor reassured people that the campaign was not a “one-off”.
She said: “...this isn't just about a clean-up. We've been knocking on doors and listening to residents because turning up, clearing the mess and walking on isn't good enough”
People shared their thoughts about the plans online and pointed out streets and areas in need of intervention.
But while some were positive, not everyone was impressed, with others voiced concerns that unless more can be done, the problem will keep on coming back.
Naveed Shakoor, a lifelong resident of the Dallow ward, said: “It's absolutely nonsense. They carry on picking [fly-tipped waste] up… then it comes back again.”
The council acknowledged that it needs the support of Luton residents to bring about lasting change.
Cllr Saleem called on the community to get behind the campaign and to get involved.
She said: “Residents have told us loudly and clearly that enough is enough. We agree. That’s why we’re stepping up, taking stronger action and getting it done.
“But we can’t do it on our own. Lasting change only comes when we all take responsibility and pride in the places we live and work.”
Meanwhile, an extra £3 million will be put into refurbishing all 60 council-managed playgrounds over the next two years and an additional £500,000 being spent to improve sports pitches.
There will be 65 new roles created for the campaign including in neighbourhood enforcement, street cleaning and parking enforcement.
People can expect regular updates to see the action being done and how the extra investment is improving communities around the town.
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