22 April 2008

Overgrown hedges, abandoned cars, potholes, or a build up of litter - these are just some of the concerns that a network of local volunteers are helping to resolve thanks to a scheme organised by Guildford Borough Council. And next week even more residents will have the chance to find out about new initiatives and how they can get involved at a special open evening to promote the scheme.

Called the Community Action Programme, volunteers report any environmental concerns they see in their local area to the Council’s Community Action Team. Those already volunteering as part of the scheme as well as people interested in taking part can drop in to the open evening, anytime from 5-7pm on Wednesday 30 April at the Greenark in Lido Road, Guildford.

Lead Councillor for Environment, Cllr Jenny Wicks, explains: “We have over 200 volunteers across the borough keeping a look-out for environmental problems affecting their local area and flagging up concerns to our dedicated hotline. The scheme has often been described as environmental neighbourhood watch, and works so well because our volunteers do not have to spend time finding out which organisation is responsible for fixing a particular problem - we will sort that out for them”.

Volunteers report concerns to the Council using email, telephone or pre-paid postcards. If the problem concerns one of Guildford Borough Council’s services, we will respond as quickly as possible to resolve the problem. If the report relates to another organisation such as Surrey County Council (for example, roads and pavements), the Council’s Community Action Team will pass the details to them.

“Volunteers get a monthly update on what’s happening as a result of their report so they can see what action is being taken, and we send borough councillors and parish councils details of the issues we have dealt with in their area,” adds Cllr Wicks.

At the open evening residents will be able to meet staff and councillors from Guildford Borough Council. They will also be able to:

• Find out about a new project to Keep Guildford Clean.
• Nominate an area for a special clean-up.
• Find out how to organise a community clean up day.
• Find out more about our Recycling Works trial and our plans to collect kitchen waste
• Talk to one of our parking experts about residents' parking or other parking issues.

For more information contact Derek Trawber using the details below.

Derek Trawber
Recycling and Cleansing Services
Guildford Borough Council
Woking Road Depot
Guildford
Surrey
GU1 1QE

Tel: 01483 445060
Email: derek.trawber@guildford.gov.uk

This initiative is part of Guildford Borough Council's commitment to improving residents’ local surroundings, by focusing on issues that matter most to them such as a cleaner, safer and greener environment.