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Issue Date: 25th May 2006
SPRING CLEAN IN NORTH BENWELL
North Benwell kicks off its 'Clean Sweep Week' on Tuesday 30th May. Organised by the Neighbourhood Management Initiative, a number of events are planned that will focus on improving the local environment.
The ever popular hanging basket events take place on Wed 31st where residents can come along, get their hands dirty and purchase great value baskets and pots. Residents from The Terraces will be running one event in Ladykirk Road Community Garden, while those residents who live in High Cross can come along to the 'Cat Park' on Ethel Street and also speak to City Council staff about the regeneration plans for their community.
There will be a series of community skips strategically located by the Initiative and Your Homes Newcastle to encourage bulky items to be disposed of responsibly. The Benwell Street Wardens will also be on hand throughout the week to assist residents and advise of them of the services available to ensure their community is not blighted by rubbish.
Christina Gates, the Neighbourhood Manager, says: "As work continues to improve North Benwell, we use this week as an opportunity to raise awareness amongst local people that they have a part to play in making their community a better place to live. Residents should keep a lookout for the leaflets that will tell them about all that will be happening."
The week culminates with the official opening of Ladykirk Road Community Garden on Friday 2nd June at 12.30pm. An official tree planting ceremony will take place with Councillor Doreen James and Lisa Brinicombe of Business In The Community. Since last year, residents have been working on a green space that was previously a demolition site. They have been weeding, pruning shrubs, planting bulbs and flowers, and are in the process of working with City Council staff from Neighbourhood Services to install some seating areas. With support from the Neighbourhood Management Initiative and also the Council's Parks and Countryside team, the aim is to create a pleasant open space in this urban community. Now they are looking for more volunteers so they can continue with the improvements.
Christina adds: "It's a sign that this community is improving that the residents themselves have the confidence to turn around this piece of land. It's a great way of helping the area get better, doing a bit of exercise and being in the fresh air!"
Following the opening there will be a 'Teddy Bears Picnic' and residents are invited to come along where they can enjoy refreshments and activities and see the work that's going on in the community garden.
North Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative covers over 2,000 properties and is funded by Bridging NewcastleGateshead (BNG). It is delivered by Home Group Ltd, Newcastle City Council and Northumbria Police as part of Bridging NewcastleGateshead.