The Great British Spring Clean returns to Wigan, tackling waste and boosting pride in place

Since launching a decade ago, the campaign has shown how litter-picking heroes love where they live by pledging to pick more than 4.5 million bags of litter all over the country.

With the Spring Clean becoming the nation’s biggest ever environmental clean-up, Wigan borough has played a big part in the national campaign, with residents, businesses, organisations, and council staff all getting involved to improve the look and feel of our neighbourhoods.

Running until Sunday March 29, the Great British Spring Clean complements the local authority’s Keep it Clean campaign and tireless work that hundreds of volunteers carry out all year round to keep their communities clean.

Coun Paul Prescott, portfolio holder for planning, environmental services and transport, said: “Across Wigan borough, we have countless residents who work tirelessly to ensure their communities are clean, tidy, and free from litter and waste.

“These efforts make a huge difference in maintaining pride of place within our vibrant communities, and align with the council’s ‘Keep It Clean’ campaign, which shares vital messages and raises awareness of the real damage that litter and fly-tipping can cause.”

To support the national campaign, Wigan Council has organised a community litter-pick at Howe Bridge Sports Centre from 10am to 12pm on March 27. One has already taken place on Kitt Green Road.

Litter-picking equipment will be on hand for residents wishing to get involved at these events, which can also be provided for other litter-picks that residents or groups wish to organise in their communities.

The council says that not only will these litter-picks help to improve the look and feel of our streets, parks, and green spaces, they will go a long way in creating a safer environment for the residents and wildlife across our borough.

It says that working together to clean up neighbourhoods will also help to boost civic pride, build community connections, and support wellbeing while enjoying the fresh air.

In addition to the messaging around litter, fly-tipping, and waste disposal, the council’s Keep It Clean campaign has seen the installation of new bins, an increase to the council’s bulky waste collection offer, and partnership working with community-conscious residents.

Coun Prescott added: “I’m really proud of all the work that has been completed since our Keep it Clean campaign was launched in 2023.

"We have seen real community spirit in action, with countless residents working together to clear hundreds of tonnes of waste and tackle the real problem of litter and fly-tipping across our borough.

“While we will continue to work all year round to keep our communities safe and tidy, there is no better time for residents to join in with the fun during the Great British Spring Clean.”

For more information about the council's support with the Great British Spring Clean, and how to access litterpicking equipment, visit its Great British Spring Clean webpage.