Here in Stockport, we are lucky to have an array of fantastic outdoor spaces. We’ve got South Reddish Park, Reddish Vale Country Park and much more. As summer gets into full swing, I’m more grateful than ever that there are places where families and friends can meet, relax and get some fresh air.
Anyone who knows me knows that I’m a passionate advocate for community action to keep our areas clean and well-maintained. Our local spaces are the bedrock of our communities and should therefore be treasured.
That’s why I’m so pleased that recently more and more litter picking initiatives have started popping up in and around Reddish and the Heatons. A few weeks back, I joined Reddish councillors and the Friends of South Reddish Park on their community litter pick. Cllrs Jude Wells and Janet Mobbs helped organise the event and are continuing to co-ordinate various community litter picks in and around Reddish South.
I must admit that I was surprised by how much litter we all managed to shift. When I arrived at the park, I thought it already looked tidy, but the more I explored the park the more bits of rubbish I found.
I was so pleased to see councillors joining forces with residents to tackle the litter problem. Keeping the local area tidy is a key priority for Labour councillors, and I know that they will continue to do amazing work in this regard. I’m as frustrated by anyone by those who litter, but by joining forces with friends, neighbours, and local government, we can make a real change and protect our open spaces.
So, my message for anyone who is reading this is to get involved. This is our community, and we all share ownership of it. The more that we recognise that, the easier it will be to keep our local environment looking great for years to come.