Daren Spring presented the report that provided Members with an update on the progress of Clean It, Cut It with an overview of the current status and outlined the service aspirations for the future which sought to address the improved perceptions of street cleanliness, grounds maintenance and parks, playgrounds and open spaces.

Councillor Jones thanked the Officers and all the crews for the fabulous job undertaken and that residents could now see the improvements made.

Councillor Jones asked Officer who would be responsible for keeping the Manorway tidy. Steve Cox stated that this was currently in discussion but at present it was the Council’s responsibility. Going forward a meeting had been scheduled with DP World to ensure that all organisations were clear on the delivery of this service.

Councillor Jones stated his support for Keep Britain Tidy that was coming to Thurrock.

Councillor Jones questioned whether operations undertaken by Kingdom were being kept an eye on following bad press. Steve Cox stated that reassurances had been received from Kingdom and the Council would keep track on these for the remainder of the pilot.

Councillor Stone asked Officer whether the Council would collect rubbish that local residents had picked up from alleyways. Daren Spring said yes that would be possible but would prefer that rubbish be bagged. These bags could be supplied by the Council. Steve Cox said the Council would be happy to help and this could form part of the review.

Councillor Collins echoed Councillor Jones comments that the service was undertaking some excellent work and appreciated the work done. Councillor Collins asked whether there were costs relating to Keep Britain Tidy coming to Thurrock and was this cost a benefit to residents. Steve Cox stated that this was a sensible investment and an inspiration to keep the borough tidy.

Councillor Piccolo backed the Keep Britain Tidy scheme in Thurrock and stated that those parks rated as good should not be forgotten and neglected.

Councillor C Kent asked Officers whether any responses had been received from Highways England who had the responsibility for cleaning the A13 from Wennington through to and including the A1089. Steve Cox stated that the Council had not received the responses they would have liked. Following the difficulty of trying to pin Connect Plus down, a meeting had been scheduled for next week to discuss a more frequent cleaning regime of these areas.

Councillor C Kent asked whether Grays Beach would be up and running for the summer holidays. Steve Cox stated that assurances had been given by Anglian Water that any similar flooding incidents would not happen again.

Councillor C Kent questioned whether the administration’s spending on Clean It, Cut It campaign had been value for money and what plans to educate youngsters to respect and have pride in Thurrock. Steve Cox stated that the team had undertaken an excellent job and that a further survey would be sent out to residents to understand their perceptions of the campaign.

Daren Spring stated that work with colleges was underway to educate young people on recycling and littering.

RESOLVED

That the Cleaner Greener and Safer Members noted the performance in relation to the Clean It Cut It element of the Clean It Cut It Fill It programme since last reporting to committee in October 2016.