OPERATION Cleansweep, Hartlepool’s long-running multi-agency improvement scheme, is to target its first industrial estate.

The Longhill Industrial Estate, an area stretching from Burbank Street to Belle Vue Way and Mainsorth Terrace, will be given a major facelift next week.

Business leaders who say that the works will help to improve the appearance of the estate which has around 200 businesses of varying sizes and boost its chances of attracting new companies.

Tony Mills, Chair of the Longhill Business Association, said: “We couldn’t be happier. The whole clean-up will give us a big lift and we are delighted to be a part of it.”

Operation Cleansweep which usually targets residential areas of the town, is a partnership involving a range of organisations, including Hartlepool Council, Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade.

Hartlepool Council’s Environmental Enforcement Team will be patrolling the area to check for abandoned and untaxed vehicles, fly-tipped rubbish and illegal posters and signage, while officers will also be carrying out parking and Dog Control Order enforcement.

Cleveland Police will be mounting high-visibility patrols and Cleveland Fire Brigade will provide businesses with fire safety legislative advice