Part of the BIG Spring Clean campaign, spearheaded by ‘Live Here Love Here’, and sponsored by DAERA, the event brought together Council personnel, local residents and schoolchildren alike, demonstrating how everyone can play their small part to keep the local area litter-free. Representatives from NI Water were also on-hand to lend their support at the event and raise awareness of their Refillution campaign, which aims to promote the use of reusable water bottles and reduce plastic waste.
Whilst it was great to see that the area was relatively clear of litter – the volunteers still managed to remove a variety of unwanted items, including food packaging, dog waste in disposal bags and shopping trolleys!
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper commented,
“Thank you to everyone who volunteered at our first BIG Spring Clean event this year, especially to the enthusiastic teachers and schoolchildren from Rathcoole Primary School. Through the collective efforts of local volunteers and an emphasis on behavioural change, we can continue to make a meaningful difference.”
The next BIG Spring Clean event is scheduled to take place on Saturday 20 April, at Rea’s Wood, Antrim. The Live Here Love Here team extends a warm welcome to local residents to come along.
In addition, schools and community/voluntary groups are also being invited to ‘Adopt a Spot’ and arrange a clean-up in their own local area. The Council can provide litter picking equipment and collect the rubbish gathered through their Support in Kind programme.
For more information email waste@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk.
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