Bala-glory!
A street in North Liverpool blighted by flytipping, graffiti and litter is getting a fantastic make over.
Bala Street in Anfield is undergoing a huge clean-up operation which is taking place on Monday (24 August).
Work includes removing all dumped rubbish, cleaning graffiti off walls and alleygates, removing and replacing damaged sign posts, painting fences, putting up hanging baskets, tidying up derelict land, installing solar lighting and jet cleaning all the roads and entries.
Following the clean-up, the area will be monitored to determine whether having a cleaner, tidier environment has a positive impact on crime statistics and if there are any other benefits such as residents recycling their waste.
Leader of Liverpool City Council, Warren Bradley, said: “We want people to feel proud of where they live and go that extra mile to make sure their street is as welcoming as possible.
“There have been years of anti-social behaviour and constant eco-crime, and residents of Bala Street, and in the surrounding areas, are desperate to see some big improvements.
“We know if people live in clean, green areas they not only feel happier but safer, and more inclined to make that extra effort to keep their community in good condition.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has joined forces to transform the area and I’m positive it will lead to fantastic things for the area.”
Residents of Bala Street will be getting involved in the clean-up action, with a group of youngsters known as the ‘Trash Army’ picking up litter.
Bulky Bobs will be picking up unwanted furniture and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service will also be installing fire alarms and giving fire prevention advice.
The city council’s executive member for the environment, Councillor Berni Turner, said: “Enhancing the quality of life in our neighbourhoods is a big priority for the council.
“As this is our Year of the Environment, we want to do everything to improve local communities, and it’s amazing how something as simple as tidying up derelict land, or repairing damaged sign posts can make people feel proud about where they live.
“Ten communities have already benefited from the city council’s Respect weeks – which brings together agencies and residents to tackle crime and environmental issues and the end result has a positive impact on people.
“After the clean-up, I’m sure residents of Bala Street will keep up the good work and make sure the area stays in fantastic condition.”
Partners joining the city council in the clean-up include Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Registered Social Landlords, Bulky Bobs, Probation Service and local businesses.
