New signs urge Cumberland residents to tackle littering

Cumberland Council is launching a bold campaign against littering and fly-tipping with new Variable Message Signs appearing across popular routes. The initiative features the attention-grabbing message: ‘Don't be a TO55 3R – take your litter home!’

The council aims to clearly communicate that littering and fly-tipping are not only illegal but also anti-social, detrimental to wildlife, harmful to the environment, and expensive for taxpayers who foot the bill for clean-up operations.

The wording on the signs is designed to be eye-catching and provoke thought without causing offence. Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, emphasised the importance of community respect, stating:

“We want the public to know that Cumberland Council is taking a firm stand against littering and fly-tipping. Littering isn’t just about rubbish, it’s about respect for our communities, our environment, and the people who work hard to keep this place clean."

Councillor Rollo highlighted the adverse effects discarded rubbish has on wildlife and landscapes and stressed the importance of safe working conditions for cleanup crews. She encouraged locals to dispose of waste properly and report instances of littering or fly-tipping.

The campaign is inspired by the national Keep Britain Tidy movement and will utilise posters, signage, and social media hashtags like #DontBeATO553R to further its reach. Materials will be placed in public spaces, parks, lay-bys, and areas with high foot traffic to challenge attitudes towards littering and foster positive behavioural changes.