Though Warwick District Council has faced a significant increase in costs for providing a street cleansing service, the new contract means that each town centre now has a dedicated crew that will visit the town first thing each morning, followed by another visit later in the day to carry out an additional cleanse, including emptying litter bins.

As part of the new contract it has been necessary for the Council to review particular services, including the town centre ‘Barrow Operatives’. Although Kenilworth, Royal Leamington Spa and Warwick Town Councils were asked to contribute towards the costs of continuing this particular service they were unable to do so due to similar financial constraints; therefore, this particular function will no longer be operational.

idverde has confirmed that each Barrow Operative will be fully supported as they transfer to become part of the new town centre cleaning crew. The barrow operatives are valued members of staff and will still be employed carrying out similar tasks but in different ways.

Councillor Alan Rhead, Portfolio Holder for Environment & Neighbourhood, said: “Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, Warwick District Council has a statutory duty to keep open spaces that are accessible to the general public free of litter and refuse so far as is practicable.

“Though the new scheme may not be as frequent as the town centre Barrow Operatives, it is sufficient to meet our duties under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and will still see our town centres cleaned regularly for the enjoyment of everyone.

“We will be regularly monitoring and inspecting the town centres to review their cleanliness with this new way of working.

“However, it is imperative that those visiting the town centres act responsibly by not dropping litter in the first place. If you find that a bin is full, please use another bin or take your rubbish home with you. We all have a responsibility to ensure that our town centres are free of litter.”