Clean sweep for roads and paths

IN a sweeping turnaround, Oldham’s streets have been declared the most litter-free in Greater Manchester.

Residents have previously complained about grotty roads and pavements, but a new Government-commissioned survey recorded impressive figures.

The latest Cleanliness National Indicators for 2008/9 found that litter is at an unsatisfactory level on just 5 per cent of the borough’s streets — better than any of other nine local authorities in the region.

When the score is combined with the borough’s rating of 11 per cent for unsatisfactory detritus (loose stones, grit and silt) on roads and footpaths, it gives an overall score of 8 per cent — placing Oldham fourth overall in the region for environmental cleanliness.

In the previous year, Oldham’s combined score for litter and detritus was 17 per cent, which means it has more than halved in a 12-month period.

The figures were audited by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Oldham Council cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, Councillor Mark Alcock, said: “This is the first time we have managed to be rated the best in Greater Manchester for street litter and it is a clear sign we are making excellent progress.

“I would like to pay tribute to the efforts of our Street Scene team who are delivering improved results as a result of an extra £500,000 investment put into the service during that period.

“We have invested in more litter patrols with ‘Dandys’ now increased to 15 daily rounds. These target known problem areas across the borough which now have virtually a full-time presence. We have done this in response to residents’ complaints and also because, as well all know, litter breeds more litter.

”Our performance has come a long way in a relatively short period, especially when you consider that our overall rating in 2003/4 showed that litter and debris was a significant problem on 24 per cent — almost a quarter — of our streets and roads.

“In terms of detritus, that figure has dropped by six per cent in one year alone and is down to our commitment to more road sweeping. That is also no mean feat given the rainfall, water run-off on rural roads and the amount of winter maintenance our borough has to undertake.

“We are encouraged by these results, but are by no means resting on our laurels and we will continue to strive to improve our service to residents.”

The council’s continued campaign against graffiti and flyposting — in partnership with the police and Town Centre Business Improvement District — also reduced criminal damage to a rating of just 3 per cent of streets being unsatisfactory in 2007/8.

Residents can report a grot spot by calling 0161-770 6644, e-mailing contact@oldham.gov.uk or visiting www.tidyoldham.co.uk.