Over two tonnes of litter cleared from the A45
North Northamptonshire Council teams collaborate with National Highways in night-time operation
A major litter clearance operation along the A45 has resulted in the collection of 2.4 tonnes of litter across 12 night-time shifts in August and September.
The effort was coordinated by North Northamptonshire Council in partnership with National Highways and their contractor Amey.
The clean-up was strategically aligned with overnight road closures used for repair and maintenance work by National Highways, allowing litter-picking teams to access areas otherwise difficult due to traffic.
This approach not only ensured safety but also minimised disruption to road users.
The clean-up spanned from Wilby Way to Raunds on the A45.
Approximately 420 sacks of litter were collected, equivalent to the weight of two family cars.
Typical items retrieved included snack wrappers, plastic bottles, and cigarette packets.
Councillor Chris McGiffen, Executive Member for Highways and Travel at North Northamptonshire Council, highlighted the positive impact of working closely with partners to carry out this significant operation.
Cllr McGiffen said, "While we are pleased to have removed a significant amount of litter, the best outcome would be for it not to be there in the first place."
Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, expressed satisfaction with the effective collaboration that allowed the clean-up to happen.
Bill Freeman, Route Manager for National Highways, emphasised the importance of tackling roadside litter, noting that it poses a social problem and environmental threat.
He urged road users to dispose of their waste responsibly to prevent the need for such operations.
North Northamptonshire Council and National Highways plan to continue their efforts, identifying further opportunities for litter clearance along the A45 and A14.