AN award-winning scheme that has transformed the streets of a South Yorkshire town could soon be on its way to Swindon.

Streetpride was launched by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council three years ago with the specific aim of improving the look and cleanliness of the town.

And after tackling issues such as the amount of time it takes to clear up drug litter to the removal of abandoned cars within 24 hours, Streetpride is seen as the ideal weapon to sweep up Swindon's streets.

Delegates from Swindon Council have visited Rotherham to see at first-hand how the scheme works and officers are currently working on a framework to present to the council's cabinet.

Swindon Council leader Roderick Bluh said that the initiative, which sees residents call a special hotline if they see eyesores such as graffiti, fly-tipping or dog fouling, could greatly benefit the town.

"We are working on proposals to introduce Streetpride to Swindon, but we are waiting for officers to put together a report on it so we can analyse the scope," he told the Adver.

"We want to do it because we have seen what Rotherham are trying to achieve, and have achieved, and it is really impressive.

"It really does work up there and I see no reason why a similar scheme would not work here in Swindon."

Streetpride's mission statement reads: "To work with the community to maintain and improve the street scene to a standard which will promote civic pride and community responsibility."

Streetpride aims to look after the environment and also tackle crime and disorder by drawing on the eyes and ears of Streetpride staff.

It also encourages community involvement through area assemblies and community clear-ups.

And the Streetpride Champions scheme encourages local people who volunteer to contact Streetpride and report problems in their area.

The scheme's staff are also easily recognisable by their distinctive uniforms and vehicles, while the scheme encourages staff to become ambassadors for Rotherham.

In March last year, Streetpride won the environment award at the Local Government Chronicle Awards in London and is partly responsible for Rotherham Council being one of the highest-rated authorities in the country.

It's director of economic and development services, Adam Wilkinson, said: "This service has made a terrific impact on quality of life here.

"From graffiti to street-lights, potholes to litter clean-ups, it's helped improve the lives of the people of the borough."

  • What do you think of this plan? Join our online forum