Swindon Borough Council launches Big Town Centre Clean-Up in August
Initiative aims to enhance appearance and experience in Swindon town centre
Swindon Borough Council is set to embark on The Big Town Centre Clean-Up during the final two weeks of August, focusing efforts on enhancing the public realm by targeting key locations within the town centre.
The initiative addresses ongoing concerns about the appearance and condition of town centre areas, aiming to improve the experience for residents, visitors, and businesses by concentrating resources for maximum impact.
The Clean-Up will include street cleaning, graffiti removal, paving repairs, weed clearance, bench refurbishments, and heightened fly-tipping enforcement.
The fly-tipping enforcement team will increase activity in known hotspots and raise the Fixed Penalty Notice for offenders from £400 to £1,000.
The council will also collaborate with property owners to address issues like graffiti, overgrown vegetation, and building neglect by the end of August, with potential enforcement for non-compliance.
Councillor Gary Sumner, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, emphasised the practical nature of the initiative, aiming for visible improvements that demonstrate commitment to revitalising the town centre.
“The Big Town Centre Clean-Up is about delivering improvements that people will see and feel,” Sumner said.
Council members Kevin Parry and Matthew Vallender underscored the importance of collaboration with private property owners to tackle maintenance issues.
“Many of the buildings affected by issues such as graffiti, neglect, and poor maintenance are privately owned. That’s why we are asking both commercial and residential property owners to play their part,” Parry stated.
Vallender highlighted the immediate benefit of such efforts in enhancing visitor experience, while recognising the need for long-term regeneration strategies.
“Revitalising the town centre is a long-term challenge that requires investment and action from a range of partners,” Vallender said.
To encourage community involvement, the Council plans a community action day inviting local groups, businesses, and volunteers to actively contribute to improving the town centre environment.
Residents will be encouraged to report issues via the Council’s online ‘Report It’ service, aiding further maintenance efforts.