Local politics is all about the everyday things that matter to local people and one of the issues we hear most about is fly-tipping – rubbish that’s been dumped illegally on Reading’s streets. As Green councillors we take the issue of waste disposal very seriously and hear regular complaints from concerned residents who live and work near fly-tipping hotspots.
There’s been a lot of strong words from the council on the subject over recent months – claims of a ‘zero-tolerance’ policy and the creation of a dedicated team to tackle illegally disposed waste. Fly-tipping is one of the main concerns that residents bring to the Green team so we feel it’s crucial that the council follows up on the rhetoric with meaningful policies.
Green pressure is cleaning up the town
And the pressure our Green councillors are applying seems to be working! We are delighted that the council has launched a free bulky waste collection. After many years of campaigning for more action against fly-tipping, we welcome Reading Council’s recent commitment to fight back… it’s long overdue!
So – if you have anything you need to dispose of but can’t get it to the local tip by yourself, you can now reserve a slot 14 days in advance by calling 0118 937 3787 or visiting www.reading.gov.uk/bulkywaste.
And don’t forget, if you spot some illegally dumped rubbish or overflowing bins you can report it directly using the Love Clean Streets smart phone app: lovecleanstreets.info
Newly elected Katesgrove councillors Doug Cresswell and Louise Keane are tackling graffiti
Like all Reading residents, we’re tremendously proud of our Banksy, but we’re not so fond of the numerous tags and squiggles that blight the town.
Last November Reading Council announced another ‘zero tolerance’ policy – this time for graffiti.
Why not get involved and help us to make Reading cleaner? The council has said it will provide 20 graffiti removal kits – and training – to local community groups so residents can take action to rid the graffiti from their own neighbourhoods.
In Katesgrove newly elected Green councillors Doug Cresswell and Louise Keane have been reporting graffiti and can put you in contact with the right person at the council to get a cleaning kit.
In Redlands it’s Green councillors David McElroy and Kathryn McCann.
In Park it is Green councillors Josh Williams, Brenda McGonigle and myself. Contact us at info@readinggreenparty.org.uk or 07985 923 938.
Green councillors are working hard all year round
Local politics is all about the everyday things that affect local people. Bins, graffiti, anti-social behaviour, potholes, planning applications… It’s not terribly glamorous stuff but it matters to all of us so we’re here and we’re working hard all year round to ensure that Reading is a greener, cleaner and fairer town for all us.
Green councillor Rob White is the leader of the main opposition group on Reading Borough Council
