West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner staff grabbed their bin bags, litter-pickers and wellies and headed out on to the streets of Birmingham.
Led by PCC David Jamieson and Assistant PCC Ashley Bertie, the team cleaned in and around Soho Road as part of a city-wide day of action. They were joined by members of the public, community groups and pupils from St Michael’s Primary and Eden Boys School.
Along with Birmingham City Council, 10 wards were targeted with a range of activities designed to tackle deep-rooted issues.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson stressed that more cared-for streets are often safer streets, with the added bonus of attracting new businesses and investors.
Assistant West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Ashley Bertie added: “This was a fantastic day that showed the true spirit of Birmingham.
“It was great to see communities come together to clean things up and improve our city.
“Communities that look after their streets not only have a strong sense of pride and unity but also attract investment and opportunity. Everybody wins.”
The clean-up day targeted Aston, Bartley Green, Bordesley Green, Brandwood, Lozells, Handsworth, Nechells, Perry Barr, Soho, Sparkbrook and Washwood Heath tackling issues such as fly-tipping, graffiti and litter.
Cllr Tony Kennedy, one of Birmingham City Council’s four Assistant Leaders, said: “If we are to deliver on a better Birmingham for our citizens, we need to work much more closely with groups and partner organisations that are already doing great things in their local areas – and shape what we do to address the needs of our communities in a sustainable way.
“Behaviour change is a key element of this. Through this day of action we have looked at local issues related to litter and street cleansing and demonstrated how we can achieve positive change.
“The series of events at locations right across Birmingham will hopefully act as a demonstration of what we are trying to achieve with improved local leadership. We know one size doesn’t fit all and will do everything we can to come up with local solutions to local challenges.”
“However, the city is a made up of many different neighbourhoods. No two places are the same in terms of the services or solutions they need.
“At a time when resources are reducing, and will continue to reduce, we all need to work together to achieve our aim.
“This day of action is about demonstrating how we can all play a role in making that happen.”
