Make a difference this Great British Spring Clean

Thursday, 27 February 2025 11:32

By Alexander Chadwick @thisisyo1

City of York Council is encouraging residents, schools, businesses and community groups to get involved in this year’s Great British Spring Clean.

The ninth annual Great British Spring Clean will take place from 21 March - 6 April.

During the Great British Spring Clean, the council will lend a hand to support anyone taking part, including:

providing equipment to help make jobs quicker and easier to do
collecting bagged litter
promoting community events
offering practical advice
sharing health and safety guidance

As well as encouraging everyone to organise their own litter picks, this year we are also supporting pre-organised community litter picks and ‘tidy ups’ in areas across the city*.

Residents who have enjoyed taking part in their community events can also register to join over 1800 individuals who volunteer throughout the year across the city in a variety of volunteer roles. Find out more at www.york.gov.uk/EnvironmentAndCommunity

Cllr Jenny Kent, Joint Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said: “At last, Spring is here! Let’s get outdoors and spruce up our streets for the summer ahead. Litter harms wildlife – the RSPCA receives 10 calls a day relating to animals hurt by eating, or getting trapped or cut, by rubbish. It blights our city and makes us feel less safe.

“We all need to turn the tide on litter and stop it being dropped in the first place, but we can also take action and help clean up our streets.

“Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and feel more connected to your community. Whether you pick up one item or bags and bags; on your own or together with your school, neighbours or work colleagues, take pride in your space and know that you are joining thousands across the country who are stepping up for The Great British Spring Clean.”

To register for an event or find out more, visit: www.york.gov.uk/GBSpringClean.

For more information on environment activities throughout the year, visit: https://www.york.gov.uk/EnvironmentAndCommunity

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