Work has continued to make a positive difference in Hough Green, with a successful Spruce Up Your Streets day taking place on Afton, last month. 

The event brought together residents, partners and colleagues for a busy and rewarding day of action.

Groundwork had already been completed ahead of the main event by our Environmental teams, including mowing and litter picking to prepare the area.

However, on the day itself, there was still plenty to do – and the strong turnout of volunteers ensured that every task was tackled with enthusiasm.

The Day in Numbers:

🗑️ 2 full skips filled by residents clearing unwanted household items
🛍️ 20 bags of rubbish collected and removed
🚶‍♂️ Pathways edged and tidied to improve safety and appearance
🌿 11 wheelbarrows of green waste cleared
🚚 1 caged van load of fly-tipping removed

Additional effort focused on improving the overall environment, making the area cleaner, safer and more welcoming for everyone who lives there.

This successful day was made possible thanks to fantastic teamwork and community spirit. A huge thank you goes to:

• AKM Homes, who generously donated a skip and supported the day 
• The Youth Justice Service, including two officers and two dedicated young people who worked incredibly hard alongside the community
• Our behind-the-scenes colleagues, who ensured everything ran smoothly by coordinating equipment delivery and collection

The event is a great example of what can be achieved when residents, partners and colleagues work together towards a shared goal.

While the improvements are already clear to see, the longer-term impact will continue as the space is maintained and cared for. Initiatives like Spruce Up Your Streets play a key role in supporting our commitment to building Thriving Communities as part of Our Future Focus 25–28 – creating neighbourhoods that are cleaner, greener and more welcoming for everyone.

Earlier in May, we carried out a major two-day Spruce Up Your Streets project in Kingsway, clearing large volumes of waste, restoring overgrown areas and improving pathways to create a safer, greener environment.