A SCHEME to clean up Darlington’s back lanes has been extended to more streets.

The initiative was launched last year to try and tackle problems with litter, rubbish, deliberate fires and fly-tipping.

The council says the pilot has proved a success and is being widened to more streets.

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Councillor Jonathan Dulston, the council’s deputy leader, said: “As with many other areas, we face challenges in keeping our back lanes clear of litter and rubbish and deal with many complaints of fly tipping every year.

“We are determined to make a difference and this initiative has shown that by working together with residents improvements can be made. We’ve been delighted by the response from residents and landlords, their support has been really encouraging and we have seen a drop in both fires and fly tipping in the back lanes.

“There have been one or two people who have not supported our efforts, but as we stated at the start of the initiative, we are taking enforcement action to tackle that.”

A pilot scheme in the Denes area has already been widened to cover other nearby streets, with further expansion now planned in other parts of the town including Katherine Street, Easson Road, Victoria Road, Herbert Street and Pensbury Street.

An invitation has also been extended to others keen to do their bit to nominate their area to be included as the scheme continues to expand.

The Denes resident Chris Donaldson, who along with his wife, has been involved since the start, said he had seen a massive difference in the back lane behind his home.

Chris, who set up a Facebook group in 2015 to highlight the issue of litter-strewn back lanes and called on residents to take pride in their neighbourhoods, said: “The project, and the work the council has done, has made a real difference to the state of the lanes.

“We are very grateful for what has been achieved and will continue to support the council as much as we can.”

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Councillor Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, added: “We know most people are doing the right thing and it’s been great to see the support of residents for this initiative, which has already made such a difference in the target areas. We’d like to say thank you to all those residents and landlords who have contributed, and continue to contribute, to the success of this project.

“We’re now keen to replicate that success elsewhere and broaden the scheme to get takeaways and other businesses involved too, but we need your help. The first step is simple – keep your bin within your yard and only put it out when collection is due, this really does make all the difference.

“If you are keen to get involved and would like us to adopt the scheme in your local area do get in touch.”

The scheme works by council workers checking households have the right bins and equipment and speaking to them about how to dispose of rubbish correctly, reminding them not to leave out refuse sacks and bulky waste, which should go to the tip, and what action can be taken against those who flout the rules.

To find out more and how you can get involved call 01325 406999 or email Paul McQuillan, environmental crime coordinator, part of the council’s Community Safety Team, who coordinates the scheme, at paul.mcquillan@darlington.gov.uk. 

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