A SPRING clean is underway in Taunton area parks and public spaces following an increase in litter during lockdown due to more people exercising outdoors.
Somerset West and Taunton Council staff are tackling the problem by tidying up our residential streets, highway verges and open spaces.
The authority is also encouraging people to get involved and take pride in their neighbourhoods.
Council leader Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts says she wants to see bad habits and carelessness replaced by positive attitudes to litter and a sense of public responsibility.
She added: "We have some amazing open spaces in and around our towns and it’s wonderful that so many people have taken the opportunity to get out and appreciate them.
"It’s also been really heartening to see the community spirit that has grown in our residential areas.
"We are always alert to reports of litter which council staff and our contractors make every effort to clear up, but it would be so much better for everyone’s health and well-being if we can prevent the problem in the first place.
"We aim to educate, inform and empower people so that together we can make a difference and transform our streets, roadsides and open spaces for good."
The council’s open spaces team has been working to remove litter, overgrown vegetation and dead and damaged trees at Hankridge Nature Reserve, to improve the light that will help maintain the health of the existing trees.
SPRUCED UP: How the path looks now
SWT has also reinstated the old paths that had been lost under thick mud over the years, as well as creating mounds that have been sown with wildflower seeds.
Cllr Smith Roberts said: "The work strikes a balance between the increasing demand for quality recreational areas and the needs of the local wildlife population in line with our commitment to give equal importance to ecological issues alongside climate emergency actions to provide a better future for everyone."
SWT would like to hear from you if you currently take part in or co-ordinate litter clearing efforts in your neighbourhood or if you would like to get involved - contact the customer services team at enquiries@somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk
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