Calls for a dedicated team to clean streets of Wellington
A specialist environmental team could be set up to clean up the streets of Wellington – if one councillor gets his way.
Councillor for College ward, Lee Carter will address the meeting of Wellington Town Council tomorrow on behalf of fellow Labour councillors calling for the council to fund expanded cleaning in seven wards outside the town centre.
There are currently nine parish environmental teams in operation across Telford.
They each consist ofstaff, including young apprentices, who undertake environmental maintenance and improvements.
Their work has recently been shortlisted for a national award.
Councillor Carter is calling for extra cleaning in areas he deems as needing "urgent attention".
He said: "The team responsible for street cleaning in Wellington centre do a commendable job.
"However, it is clear there are areas within all seven wards in Wellington that require urgent attention in terms of environmental maintenance and improvements on top of what is currently provided by Telford & Wrekin Council.
"I believe that a parish environmental team would do a great deal to improve the neighbourhoods outside of the town centre."
Councillor Angela McClements, for Arleston ward, agrees.
She said: "The work of these teams in areas such as Priorslee, Madeley and Dawley has been so impressive in maintaining and improving the environment that they have earned cross party commendation and recognition through nomination for national awards.
"Not only do they do a huge amount to maintain and improve our streets and neighbourhoods, they also provide secure employment and apprenticeship opportunities for our community."
Councillor Ward is urging the council to form a committee to investigate the benefits of a parish environmental teams with view to including provision for one within the budget for 2015/16.
Wellington Town Council will vote on the motion tomorrow.
Parish environmental teams provide an enhanced service over and above that provided by Telford & Wrekin Council's core contract.
They cover enhanced litter picking, leaf fall clearance, repairs to street furniture, conservation and improvements to landscaped areas, mowing, weeding, planting and cleaning.
The Association of Public Service Excellence shortlisted the Telford Wrekin Neighbourhood Services' Parish Environmental Teams under the category of Best Public Private Partnership Working.
