Residents are celebrating a remarkable show of community spirit as Councillors and residents joined forces on World Clean Up Day. Across the city, Labour Councillors took the lead in creating a cleaner, healthier environment by actively organising and participating in local litter picks. From Trent Vale to Tunstall, Blurton to Bradeley, dedicated volunteers rolled up their sleeves and set a shining example of community involvement.

World Clean Up Day, observed globally on September 16th, saw communities worldwide unite against litter and waste, emphasising the importance of a clean environment.

This collective effort aligns with the broader initiatives by the Labour administration to combat illegal dumping in Stoke-on-Trent. Over the past months, the Council has cleared nearly 2000 instances of illegal dumping. Moreover, fines of £400 have been issued to nearly 500 individuals responsible for such illegal acts, underscoring the Council’s unwavering dedication to preserving the city’s cleanliness and sending a powerful message against those who threaten our environment.

Council Leader, Councillor Jane Ashworth OBE, expressed her immense pride in the community-led endeavours, stating, “World Clean Up Day epitomises our commitment to Stoke-on-Trent. Our Labour Councillors are not just leading by words but by actions, participating in the cleanup of their own communities. Collaboratively, we can create a cleaner, safer, and more appealing environment for everyone. Our administration’s robust actions against illegal dumping reinforce our pledge to a cleaner Stoke-on-Trent.”

Acknowledging the invaluable contribution of community volunteers, she added, “We owe immense gratitude to the groups and individuals tirelessly working to maintain our city’s cleanliness. Their efforts elevate our city, and we encourage everyone to embody that spirit and help shape Stoke-on-Trent into the exemplary place we know it can be.”

Deputy Leader Amjid Wazir echoed the sentiment, stating, “A cleaner city is a better city, and we stand resolute in addressing the challenge of illegal dumping. The fines imposed on offenders serve as a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated in our community. We have zero tolerance for these inconsiderate and illegal act. Our Labour Councillors’ dedication is commendable, and together, we remain steadfast in ensuring a cleaner, greener, and more delightful environment for all residents.”

Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, Cabinet Support Member for Environment and Enforcement added: “We hope to see this momentum built upon in the future, it can’t be just for this one day. We are hearing many residents say that, having seen the Council’s commitment to cleaning up the city, they feel inclined to take part and do their bit. Lots of people contributing in their streets and neighbourhoods is key to our ability to clean up the city and give residents back that sense of pride.

The Stoke-on-Trent Labour Group extends its heartfelt appreciation to the community for their support in preserving the city’s cleanliness and vibrancy. Together, this collaborative effort has left a lasting positive impact on World Clean Up Day and will continue to do so into the future.