WESTMINSTER DIARY:
As the weather improves, it is time to make the most of the great outdoors and our beautiful countryside.
The government have plans to improve routes across the UK to encourage cycling and walking for those able to use those methods to travel. This is not only beneficial to the environment, but also great for health. In this constituency, we have the perfect terrain for outdoor activities.
On 17 February, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government announced a range of ambitious initiatives to secure the future sustainability of the nation’s parks and to fund the creation of new parks and green spaces. As part of this, the Government expanded our Pocket Parks Plus Programme to make available £3.75 million to local community groups to facilitate the creation of these new parks. I am pleased to see that Meriden Adventure Playground has received funding from the programme to complete a refurb.
One of the big problems in our green spaces is litter and fly-tipping. In January 2018 the Government announced new powers to tackle waste crime which allow the Environment Agency to lock gates or block access to problem waste sites to prevent thousands of tonnes of waste illegally building up. The powers will also enable it to force operators to clear all the waste at a problem waste site, not just illegal waste. But we can all help by being vigilant and reporting fly-tipping sites, and guarding against anyone knocking on the door offering to remove big items for money, as these are often just dumped on land nearby. People can easily check a person’s waste carrier licence on the Environment Agency website www.gov.uk/topic/environmental-management/waste. Residents can also use the Council’s bulky waste collection service if they need large items removing, which can be booked at www.solihull.gov.uk
Currently it is the Great British Spring Clean until 23rd April which I know many schools, local groups and individuals have been helping with. Please do look up how to get involved on keepbritaintidy.org It makes a big difference!
Dame Caroline Spelman MP
