'SOFA So Good In Housing Estate Cleanup'

Thursday 29th September 2011

An anti-litter 'blitz' took place recently at a Leicester housing estate where fly-tipping is on the increase.

Housing group LHA-ASRA put a crack team of specialists on the ground to give expert advice to residents on legal ways to dispose of large unwanted items like beds and sofas.

Estate Action Day kicked off in Upper Temple Walk with the arrival of three specially commissioned skips and teams of LHA-ASRA staff to help fill them.

Police and antisocial behaviour specialists also attended, along with city wardens, contract cleaners and experts from the recycling and refuse collection company Biffa.

Residents were leafleted two weeks in advance and invited to bring out unwanted furniture for disposal on the day. Help was provided for infirm and housebound residents.

LHA-ASRA service delivery manager Caroline Wagstaff said the exercise - one of a series held for the benefit of its estate residents - aimed to show people that the proper disposal and large items, and a general reduction in the level of littering, helps ensure a more pleasant environment.

The association believes that heavily littered areas act as a magnet for illicit dumpers from outside the area, and kill any feelings of civic pride among locals.

"We had a really good turnout. We had ensured we had enough staff on hand to help fill the skips - and just as importantly to hear what residents have to say and give advice where it is needed," said Caroline.

LHA-ASRA is keen to ensure that imminent changes in the way state benefits are paid don't leave its residents worse off financially.

"We know that some people aren't claiming everything they are entitled to, and that this could become more of a problem when the benefit rules change next year," she added.

"That is why Angela Wade, from our financial inclusion team, was also on hand to help with a lot of useful advice."

Posted by 0 for asra Housing Group